The American Diabetes Association defines diabetes as a serious disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin, a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches, and other food into energy needed for daily life. Approximately 23.6 million Americans have diabetes; however, 5.7 million of them have not yet been diagnosed.
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Congratulations! You've already taken the first step towards good oral health by pursuing active periodontal therapy. You're already beginning to enjoy some of the benefits of treatment- a healthy mouth and a happy smile. Now that you've made the commitment to good oral health, it's important for you to protect it. Without careful, ongoing monitoring and treatment, periodontal disease can recur. Left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to bone and tooth loss.
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You are probably aware of the devastating effects that smoking and tobacco use can have on your heart, lungs, and other organs. However, you might not be familiar with the whole other “mouthful” of problems caused by tobacco use. For example, tobacco use is a significant risk factor in the development and progression of periodontal disease, which is a major cause of tooth loss in adults.
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Miracle cures, or quick fixes, have been around for centuries; certain foods, ointments, or potions have claimed to cure everything from hair loss to cancer. Marketed as quick, easy, and painless, these miracle cures often are not backed by science or approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which means that they may do more harm than good. Similar quick fixes that claim to treat periodontal disease are no different. Though elements of these quick and easy periodontal "cures" may be FDA approved, there may be little or no scientific proof that they are effective in the prevention and treatment of periodontal diseases.
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If you have been experiencing symptoms of periodontal disease, including red, swollen or tender gums or other pain in your mouth, bleeding while brushing your teeth, persistent bad breath, or a change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite, it may be a good idea to schedule an appointment with a periodontist. However, you may be wondering "What exactly is periodontal disease?" and "Why is it a good idea to see a periodontist for treatment options?" These are common questions, and their answers are important!.
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You are probably aware of the major risk factors for diabetes, including genetics, obesity and high blood pressure. However, what you may not realize is that periodontal health is also associated wi th diabetes. Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth, and has been associated with the progression of other diseases such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
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Periodontal disease is often thought of as a consequence of aging, or an adult problem. But, did you know that gingivitis, a mild form of periodontitis, is often found in both chi ldren and adoles cent s? Additionally, research shows that more advanced, harmful forms of the disease can occur in younger age groups. The good news is that a little education and a few easy steps go a long way toward preventing periodontal disease.
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Gum disease and cardiovascular disease are both major public health issues that impact a large number of Americans every day. While these two diseases impact separate areas of the body, research indi cates that periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease are connected; having one disease may actually increase your risk of developing the other.
Inflammation's Role.- Periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease are both considered chronic inflammatory conditions. Inflammation is the body's instinctive reaction to fight off infection. Inflammation is initially good for your body because it helps in the healing process. However, chronic and prolonged inflammation can lead to severe health complications.
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