When your dentist or hygienist recommends your next dental hygiene appointment, there is a good reason why they have chosen that time for you. They want to help prevent the build-up of bacteria in your mouth that can lead to diseases in your body. Overall, they want to help you have a healthy smile, and a healthy body that leads to healthy living overall.
Periodontal Disease Effects on Your Teeth
Periodontal disease happens when the gum tissues around your teeth become infected by harmful bacteria. Gingivitis is the first stage and is reversible. Symptoms include gum inflammation, redness, and bleeding. If untreated, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis. The inflammation affects the bones and tissues around the teeth, and can eventually lead to tooth loss.
Regular teeth cleanings as recommended by your dentist and hygienist can prevent gingivitis and advanced periodontal disease by removing the harmful bacteria before it reaches the deeper parts of your mouth.
Periodontal Disease Effects on Your Health
If gum infections are left untreated, harmful bacteria can spread through your body. Studies show that periodontal disease is linked to medical conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, chronic respiratory disease, dementia, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, pregnancy complications, and stroke.
Seeing your dentist and dental hygienist regularly helps keep your teeth and your body healthy. It is important to keep your scheduled appointments. Delaying your appointment can lead to harmful bacteria build-up on your teeth, and that can cause further disease in your body.
Three Steps to a Beautiful and Healthy Smile
- Brush at least twice a day for two minutes. Using an electronic toothbrush, such as the Sonicare, will help you brush effectively, and is excellent for stain removal.
- Eat a healthy diet that includes vegetables and fruits. Crunchy vegetables such as celery and carrots, and hard fruits such as apples can help keep your teeth clean. Eating cheese after your meals can help stop harmful bacteria from forming on your teeth.
- Quit tobacco products. Smoking, including smokeless tobacco (chewing tobacco) causes higher rates of tooth decay, oral lesions, and periodontal disease. These activities are also known to cause cancer.
Visit the Alberta Dental Association and Canadian Dental Association for more information and tips for a beautiful and healthy smile.
At City Centre Dental we take your health seriously. We are committed to enhancing our patients’ quality of life, confidence, and health by upholding the highest standard of care.
Click here to ask us your questions and/or to book an appointment!