What if we told you there was a connection between oral and overall health. Would you be surprised? Recent data suggests that there is indeed a connection and that the specific link is gum disease, an incredibly common oral health condition that’s also the number one cause of tooth loss in adults.
Gum disease is the result of bacteria and plaque building up around the gum line. Symptoms of the condition include:
- Swollen or sensitive gums
- Gums that bleed when you brush
- Recurring bad breath
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
- Pockets between teeth and gums
The first half of this list applies largely to mild cases of gum disease. The second half of the list describes more advanced cases. Once pockets have developed, the bacteria and plaque of gum disease can use them to travel to other parts of the body through the bloodstream.
A wide variety of health problems have been connection to gum disease, including:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Alzheimer’s
- Hypertension
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Diabetes
- Pre-term or low birth weight
Enjoying good oral and overall health means doing two things. First, it means sticking to a good oral health routine. Second, it means visiting Drake & Voto at least twice a year for regular cleanings and checkups with Dr. Gene Drake and Dr. Jayson Voto.
Is it time for your next appointment with our Owasso dental team? Call us today for an appointment. Dr. Drake and Dr. Voto serve patients from Owasso, Claremore, Collinsville, Tulsa, Sperry, Skiatook, and beyond.