It is easy to assume all gum disease is the result of poor oral hygiene. In many cases, it is. However, red or swollen gums can also be an indication of other health concerns completely unrelated to oral care. Because these conditions can be serious, it is important to pay attention to any changes or abnormalities in the gums.
Because mouth sores and swollen gums are fairly common, most people are unlikely to be concerned with these symptoms. The truth is, taking them seriously can help catch an illness in its early stages.
Sores and ulcers on the gums can be a symptom of lupus. Because they are not always painful, these types of gum abnormalities can be easy to ignore. While some canker sores are not signs of a disease, it can still be helpful to visit a dental professional if the condition occurs frequently or does not heal.
According to the Harvard Heart Letter, the plaque that sits on teeth and causes issues with the gums may be linked to plaque buildup in the arteries. People with gum disease are at least twice as likely to have a stroke, heart attack, or additional serious cardiovascular issues. While a direct connection has not been proven, chronic inflammation, such as is present in those with gingivitis, is known to play a key role in atherosclerosis.
Crohn's disease is an autoimmune disease that weakens the immune system. Because the body is more susceptible to bacteria in a weakened state, the first areas to be affected are often those more readily exposed to bacteria, such as the mouth. The food and beverages ingested throughout the day contain and nourish bacteria that can quickly cause inflammation when allowed to remain on the gums. Gums that continue to swell and get ulcers despite excellent oral hygiene can be an early indication of an autoimmune condition such as Crohn's disease.
Both high blood pressure and some of the medications for high blood pressure can result in gum disease. Many people with high blood pressure experience swollen or bloody gums. If the gums are inflamed or easily bloodied, it can be a good idea to get a blood pressure test.
Diabetes can lower the amount of blood able to reach the gums, causing them to become swollen or red or even to pull away from the teeth. Because periodontal disease can lead to high blood pressure, this is especially concerning, as elevated blood pressure can cause diabetic complications. People exhibiting symptoms of gum infection may benefit from being tested for diabetes.
Swollen, inflamed gums can be a sign of gum disease. More than just a lack of oral hygiene, periodontal disease can be the body's way of indicating other more serious underlying conditions. As well, gum issues resulting from poor oral hygiene can also lead to health issues, so taking good care of the gums can directly impact the body's overall health. It is critical to address any concerning gum issues with a dental professional.
Request an appointment here: https://www.sunshinedentalelmonte.com or call Sunshine Dental Group at (626) 325-2133 for an appointment in our El Monte office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Gum Disease in El Monte, CA.
If your dentist has diagnosed you with gum disease, you should seek treatment right away. If you do not address this problem quickly, it can become increasingly more serious. The faster you identify this condition, the more likely you are to treat it effectively. With the right intervention at the right time, you can reverse…
Laser dentistry may be the ideal choice for people looking for a new approach to dental care. The dentist uses lasers for a number of dental treatments. It provides a precise and sophisticated method of treating patients' oral health problems comfortably and effectively.Dentists use lasers to alter or remove hard or soft tissues in the…
Many people avoid getting a root canal because they are scared that there will be severe pain or long recovery times. However, with the help of laser dentistry, root canals can be done much easier, which actually leads to quicker recovery times and less pain. Laser dentistry is a modern practice that more patients are…
Wanting some quality information on laser dentistry? Specifically how it can be used to clean your teeth? Great idea. Clean teeth are an essential part of you having a healthy mouth. When plaque and tartar build up on your teeth over a period of time it will begin to cause damage to your teeth. And…
When it comes to restoring damaged or weakened teeth, dental crowns provide an effective and lasting solution. Dental crowns are custom-made caps placed over a tooth to restore shape, size, strength, and appearance. Understanding the different types of dental crowns available can help patients make informed decisions about their dental care.Porcelain crowns are crafted entirely…
A preventative dentist focuses on maintaining a patient’s oral health and preventing problems, such as sensitive teeth, from becoming more serious issues, like gum disease. This typically involves routine dental checkups, cleanings, and oral health screenings. By focusing on prevention, patients have a better chance of avoiding the need for more extensive and costly treatments…