The Relationship Between Periodontal Disease and Cardiovascular Disease
For a significant amount of time, the majority of us were under the impression that coronary heart disease was primarily a "men's health" concern. This misconception persisted for a significant amount of time. And despite the fact that this is not at all the case, this misconception is understandable given the fact that throughout the majority of the 20th century, more men than women passed away from heart disease.
However, since the middle of the 1980s, there has been a steady increase in the number of deaths among women caused by heart disease. Since the year 2017, cardiovascular disease has continued to be the leading cause of death among both men and women. This is the case regardless of gender. In addition, research that was carried out by the American Heart Association indicates that heart disease is the cause of death for one out of every three women in the United States each and every year.
Maintaining a healthy diet and being physically active on a regular basis are two of the most important steps you can take to ensure your heart stays in good health. On the other hand, were you aware that maintaining regular dental appointments is beneficial to the health of your heart? We have joined forces with the American Heart Association in order to raise awareness about the correlation between having healthy teeth and gums and having a healthy heart and circulatory system as a whole as part of their celebration of Go Red for Women day.
Our bodies are complex systems. It is not an exception to the rule that problems in one area of the body can frequently cause problems in other areas of the body, and the mouth is not an exception to this rule. Poor oral health has been linked to a wide variety of health problems, including diabetes and dementia, according to recent research. Researchers have recently come to the conclusion that periodontal disease may have a causal relationship with a variety of heart conditions. According to the findings of various pieces of research, having poor oral health may be associated with a very wide variety of conditions.
According to a warning that was issued by the American Academy of Periodontology more than 20 years ago, which is when the connection between the two was first discovered, inflammation and infection of the gums can lead to conditions such as heart attack and stroke. The warning was issued because it was discovered that inflammation and infection of the gums can lead to these conditions. Since that time, a significant number of investigations have been carried out to provide evidence for the veracity of the connection between the two.
According to the findings of a review that combined the findings of several different studies, having a history of periodontitis, which is another name for severe gum disease, can increase a person's risk of developing heart disease by as much as twenty percent. "the risk for myocardial infarction was significantly increased among subjects with periodontitis with an odds ratio of 1:49," found the findings of a different study that was published in the year 2016. (That is an absolutely ridiculously high percentage.)
Although researchers in all of the studies have noted that periodontitis is not an absolute cause of heart disease (due to the fact that there are many other factors at play, such as a poor diet and the use of tobacco), it is difficult to ignore the correlation between the two conditions.
To what extent does periodontal disease contribute to the development of heart disease?
Plaque is the primary causative factor in gum disease, which appears clinically as an infection of the gums and is caused by the persistent formation of plaque on the teeth. Plaque is a substance that forms around the teeth and under the gums over the course of the day. Plaque is made up of bacteria and a substance that is sticky, and it is composed of both of these components.
By maintaining proper oral hygiene practices on a consistent basis, such as brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist on a regular basis, plaque can be removed from teeth and prevented from hardening into tartar. This can be accomplished. Plaque and tartar are both ideal environments for the growth of the pathogenic bacteria that are responsible for gum disease. Both of these environments serve as breeding grounds for the bacteria.
When gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease, advances into periodontitis, it pulls the gums away from the teeth and can lead to visibly receding gums and even permanent tooth loss. Gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease. Periodontitis is a more advanced stage of gum disease. The first sign of gum disease is gingivitis, which is a mild form. The most advanced form of gum disease is known as periodontitis. As a consequence of this, the mouth becomes more receptive to the entry of additional bacteria, which then travels to other parts of the body and causes inflammation as well as damage to the blood vessels in those areas.
The bacteria that live in your mouth when you have gum disease can cross over into your bloodstream, enter your heart, and directly infect the vulnerable heart valves, according to Dr. Marietta Ambrose, an assistant professor of clinical medicine at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Marietta Ambrose has been quoted as having said these words. "The microbes that are found in the mouths of people who suffer from gum disease."
According to Penn Medicine, this has been shown to be the case in numerous studies. "Oral bacteria have been found by researchers in the fatty deposits of people who have atherosclerosis, a condition in which plaque builds up in the arteries (of the heart). Atherosclerosis is a condition in which plaque builds up in the arteries (of the heart). These deposits, if left untreated, can cause the arteries to become narrower or become dislodged and clogged, both of which can lead to a heart attack or stroke."
How to protect yourself from developing heart disease in addition to gum disease
These facts might be cause for concern, particularly when viewed in light of the fact that it is estimated that roughly half of all adults in the United States suffer from some form of gum disease. On the other hand, just like with so many other aspects of our health, we can all take preventative measures to lower the risk that we will develop the condition.
It goes without saying that brushing your teeth twice a day helps reduce the accumulation of plaque and tartar, both of which attract bacteria that is harmful to your teeth and gums. Brushing your teeth twice a day also helps remove food particles stuck in between your teeth, which can cause cavities. Brush your teeth carefully and in a circular motion using a toothbrush with medium or soft bristles. This type of bristle is less likely to cause damage to the gums than harder bristles. It is important to remember to brush not only your teeth but also the inside of your cheeks and your tongue when you brush your teeth.
You should floss the area that is located between your teeth and gums at least once per day, if not more frequently. (If you want more information, you can read a blog post that we wrote about the differences between traditional floss and a water flosser.) "Regular floss" is the term used to refer to the string that is used to clean between teeth.
•It is recommended that you visit your dentist at least twice a year for checkups and cleanings. These visits should be spaced out evenly throughout the year. In order to keep your health in good standing, it is essential to deal with issues as soon as they arise. For this reason, be sure to mention any problems that you have observed, such as gums that are swollen or bleeding or teeth that are unusually sensitive. Your dentist will be able to determine the cause of the problem and recommend the appropriate treatment. They are able to instruct you on the correct way to brush your teeth and use floss, and they may even suggest specialized products, such as a mouthwash that contains folic acid. In addition, they are able to answer any questions that you may have regarding your oral health.
It is essential to keep in mind, however, that not everyone will have a direct connection between gum disease and heart disease. Not everyone will have a direct connection between gum disease and heart disease. This is something that has been discussed in the past by both of us. There are many people who have one without developing the other, and shared risk factors can make it difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of either condition. In other words, there are many people who only have one of these conditions.
In spite of this, there are a few steps you can take to lower your chances of developing gum disease as well as heart disease, and they are as follows:
CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT!
GET TO KNOW YOUR BEST DENTIST IN SUMMERLIN
Dr. Marianne Cohan was voted The Best Dentist/ Dental Office and Best Cosmetic Dentist from The Las Vegas Review-Journal in 2020 and 2021. She received her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the State University of New York at Buffalo in 1992.
With an emphasis on cosmetic dentistry, complete makeovers, and implant dentistry, Dr. Cohan is committed to continuing education and feels that we never stop learning. Dr. Cohan takes pride in using high-powered magnification to perform minimally invasive restorative dentistry. She uses all the latest technological advances including digital radiography, digital photography, computer simulations, and high-resolution pictures of your proposed treatment on 55-inch screens. She also utilizes CBCT (cone beam) and laser technology.
Dr. Cohan is always available to her patients and is available for any dental emergency.
Inflammation of the gums, also known as gingivitis, is one of the most common oral diseases found in North America. The following is a list of the most effective home treatments and preventative measures for puffy gums....
In the United States, adults aged 30 and older who are nearly half (47.2% of all adults) suffer from some form of gum disease. This condition worsens with age, makes daily life unpleasant, and has a significant negative impact on quality of life. There are a lot of people who struggle with gum diseases like gingivitis, and we have a tendency to believe that there is no effective solution to this unpleasant problem. Is there a treatment for gingivitis? Is there anything that we can do at home to treat the gingivitis that we have? Let's discuss.
Inflammation of the gums, also known as gingiva, is referred to as gingivitis. Gingivitis represents the first stage of gum disease. It is a form of periodontal disease that can be reversed, and it is characterized by inflammation that is confined to the gingiva rather than spreading to the tooth's other supporting structures. After cavities, gingivitis is the oral condition that is seen the most frequently and is considered to be the second most significant oral ailment. About three-quarters of the world's population suffers from this relatively mild form of gum disease.
Gingivitis is almost always caused by neglecting one's oral hygiene, which is the primary offender in this crime. Inadequate dental hygiene promotes the growth of plaque on the teeth and causes inflammation of the gum tissues, both of which can lead to periodontal disease. Plaque, when left untreated, can harden and turn into tartar or calculus, both of which are bacteria magnets. The gums become inflamed as a result of the accumulation of more and more bacteria, as well as the irritation caused by plaque and tartar.
How can you tell if you have gingivitis? The following is a list of the most common signs and symptoms:
Is there any treatment for gingivitis?
It is necessary to diagnose gum disease at an early stage and begin treatment for it as soon as possible in order to reverse or even cure gingivitis. Because of this, it is extremely important to visit the dentist on a consistent basis, maintain good oral hygiene, carefully examine your gums, and pay attention to any changes that you notice. Your gums will be thoroughly examined, and the dentist will make recommendations regarding the treatment that will benefit you the most.
Remember that gingivitis can be cured or reversed if it is discovered and treated early on. Do not disregard any changes in the appearance of your gums, as well as any tenderness or other symptoms. And most importantly, make sure you maintain good oral hygiene and schedule regular appointments with your dentist.
What home remedies can I use to treat gingivitis?
In spite of the fact that professional dental care is necessary for the effective treatment of gingivitis, there are still many home treatment options available to choose from. In the following paragraphs, we are going to look at how to treat gum disease without going to the dentist and discuss some helpful things you can do at home. Bear in mind that the use of these remedies is in no way intended to serve as an alternative to regular visits to the dentist. Let's get the fundamentals out of the way first.
1) Step up your dental hygiene routine
Dental hygiene is absolutely necessary for both the treatment and prevention of gingivitis, and this point cannot be emphasized enough. Brushing your teeth at least twice per day and ideally after each meal or snack is the best way to ward off gingivitis and even reverse its effects. Because gums are particularly sensitive and tender at this time, it is prudent to use a gentle toothbrush or an electric toothbrush, which are both more effective at removing tartar and plaque than a standard toothbrush. You should also floss your teeth every day and rinse your mouth out with mouthwash, in addition to brushing your teeth regularly. Without maintaining good oral hygiene, none of the other home remedies or strategies will be effective.
You could also use a toothpaste formulated specifically for gingivitis or one that contains a lot of fluoride (almost all drug stores will provide options for this).
2) Oil pulling
Oil pulling is an age-old dental hygiene practice that has its origins in India and has been practiced there for centuries. The practice of using oil to pull on one's teeth in order to whiten them, freshen one's breath, and treat conditions such as gum disease has been utilized by a great number of cultures throughout history and continues to be used today. To perform oil pulling, simply swish some oil around in your mouth for twenty to thirty minutes. This method reduces the number of bacteria that are harmful and gets rid of toxins. One study, for instance, found that rinsing the mouth with coconut oil for ten minutes per day significantly reduced the amount of Streptococcus mutans, one of the most common types of bacteria found in the mouth and a significant factor in the formation of plaque.
Both coconut oil and arimedadi oil have been shown to be effective treatments for gingivitis. Lauric acid, which can be found in coconut oil, has been shown to have beneficial effects against both microbes and inflammation. Oil pulling with arimedadi has been shown to reduce gingivitis symptoms and slow the growth of plaque on teeth. It is necessary to place one to two teaspoons of oil in the mouth, swish it around, then spit it out. Next, the mouth should be rinsed with water, and then the water should be spit out. Finally, the teeth should be brushed, and a full glass of water should be consumed.
3) Saltwater rinse
One of the most straightforward treatments for gingivitis is to gargle with a solution that consists of salt water. It has been shown that drinking saltwater can help speed up the healing process. Rinsing the mouth with salt water appears to soothe irritated gums brought on by gingivitis, according to the available evidence. This straightforward home treatment can be administered by mixing three-quarters of a teaspoon of salt with a glass of warm water, gargling with the mixture, and then spitting it out.
4) Turmeric paste
People have been using turmeric as a home remedy for a variety of illnesses for many centuries. Because of its ability to reduce inflammation and fight fungal infections, this spice can also play a role in the treatment of gingivitis. Gingivitis can be treated with turmeric gels that can be found in health food stores, but it is also possible to make a paste out of turmeric that can be used instead. It is necessary to combine about one-half of a teaspoon of turmeric with an equal amount of mustard oil and salt in order to heal gums that are inflamed. After directly applying the paste to the gums and waiting ten minutes, rinse the mouth thoroughly.
5) Aloe vera
Plants of the genus Aloe are commonly used for their medicinal qualities. This wonderful plant can also assist in the treatment of gingivitis and in lowering plaque levels. Just swish some pure aloe vera juice around in your mouth for about a minute and a half before spitting it out. Aloe vera should be applied twice or three times per day for optimal results.
6) Baking soda
Baking soda and water can be combined to make a paste that can be used to brush teeth and gums. This paste has the ability to neutralize acids that contribute to gum disease. One study compared the effectiveness of plaque-removing toothpaste containing baking soda to that of toothpaste without baking soda. They discovered that toothpaste with baking soda was significantly more effective.
7) Clove paste
When it comes to the management of gingivitis, topical treatments can be of tremendous assistance. Some examples include clove paste. Clove has anti-inflammatory properties and can help prevent plaque buildup. The procedure is straightforward: either finely mince one teaspoon of cloves or soak a cotton ball in clove oil and apply it to the surface of the cotton ball. After that, rub a cotton ball that has been covered in cloves onto the gums in a gentle circular motion, and then rinse with water after one minute.
8) A mouthrinse made at home
Gingivitis can be treated with a mouthwash that you make yourself, which is something that many people are unaware of. The following are some examples:
• Mouthwash made with lemongrass oil: Dilute two to three drops of lemongrass essential oil in water, swirl it around your mouth, and then spit it out. You should do this thrice a day.
• For a mouthwash containing tea tree oil, mix three drops of tea tree oil with one cup of warm water (since tea tree oil can interact with some medications, consult your doctor first).
• To make a mouthwash with sage, combine boiling water with either one tablespoon of dried sage or two tablespoons of fresh sage. Keep on low heat for ten minutes, then strain the liquid and set it aside to cool.
• To make a mouthwash out of guava leaves, crush six guava leaves and add them to one cup of water that has been brought to a boil. Keep the mixture at a simmer for fifteen minutes, then set it aside to cool.
9) Green tea
Green tea contains a high concentration of anti-inflammatory antioxidants, which reduce swelling and may inhibit the inflammatory response of the body to bacteria found in the oral cavity. Gingivitis is characterized by inflammation and bleeding, both of which may be alleviated by drinking green tea. Green tea contains polyphenols, which have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria that can cause gingivitis.
10) Abstain from sugar and cigarettes.
Cigarettes can cause irritation to your gums and make the buildup of bacteria in your mouth worse. Sugar is another factor that works against maintaining healthy gums and teeth. Gingivitis treatment also involves making changes to one's lifestyle, such as decreasing the amount of sugar one consumes and giving up tobacco products.
What are some products that can be purchased without a prescription that can treat gum infections?
Since you now know how to treat gingivitis at home, it would be helpful to mention some over-the-counter products that will be of assistance to you in your efforts to eliminate the condition. You may want to:
Make an effort to avoid medicating yourself. Find a dentist who is conveniently located near you and ask them for recommendations on an appropriate toothbrush, gel, or mouthwash that you can use.
What kind of treatment do dentists use for gingivitis?
It is essential to take preventative measures and begin treatment as soon as possible in order to stop the progression of this gum disease. If you or a member of your family struggle with gingivitis, you should probably think about making an appointment at the dentist's office. Professional dental cleaning, also known as "scale and polish" or "scale and root planing," plays an important part in the treatment of gingivitis and is typically performed by dentists. Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums that can lead to tooth loss. At the beginning of the cleaning process, the dentist will use various instruments, such as a laser or an ultrasonic device, to eradicate any and all traces of plaque, tartar, and bacterial residue.
The removal of tartar and bacteria from the surfaces of the teeth and from underneath the gums is the objective of scaling. On the other hand, the goal of root planning is to remove bacterial products that have been produced as a result of inflammation. In addition to this, it polishes the surfaces of the roots and prevents further tartar and bacterial accumulation, both of which are obstacles to the healing process.
Because misaligned teeth or crowns and bridges that do not fit properly can aggravate gum disease in some patients, dental restoration may be necessary for those patients. This makes it more difficult to eliminate plaque during a daily dental hygiene routine. Because of this, a dentist might suggest dental restoration to their patient. Gingivitis management might become less of a challenge if these issues were resolved.
Even though gingivitis is likely to clear up after a thorough professional cleaning, we still need to make a point of practicing good dental hygiene on a daily basis. A patient may also ask their dentist for assistance in developing a routine to perform at home in order to maintain healthy gums. Gingivitis can be avoided and the quality of one's dental health significantly improved by maintaining regular checkups. Be sure to keep your regular dental appointments.
CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT!
GET TO KNOW YOUR BEST DENTIST IN SUMMERLIN
Dr. Marianne Cohan was voted The Best Dentist/ Dental Office and Best Cosmetic Dentist from The Las Vegas Review-Journal in 2020 and 2021. She received her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the State University of New York at Buffalo in 1992.
With an emphasis on cosmetic dentistry, complete makeovers, and implant dentistry, Dr. Cohan is committed to continuing education and feels that we never stop learning. Dr. Cohan takes pride in using high-powered magnification to perform minimally invasive restorative dentistry. She uses all the latest technological advances including digital radiography, digital photography, computer simulations, and high-resolution pictures of your proposed treatment on 55-inch screens. She also utilizes CBCT (cone beam) and laser technology.
Dr. Cohan is always available to her patients and is available for any dental emergency.
Our dentist in Summerlin sees many patients who suffer from gum disease each year. This condition, which can also be referred to as periodontitis or periodontal disease, progresses through a number of distinct stages. Gingivitis, the early stage of the disease, is typically painless but can progress to more serious stages of gum and tooth infection. When gum disease progresses, it causes damage to your mouth that cannot be reversed.
Periodontitis is an infection that can spread to other parts of the body, including the heart, and compromise its function.
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease (Periodontal Disease)
The following is a list of symptoms of gum disease, starting with the least severe and working their way up to the most severe:
The treatment for gum disease in your mouth will be decided based on how severe your condition currently is. Our dentist in Summerlin will perform a comprehensive exam to determine whether or not you require any of the following treatments:
Debridement: When someone has gingivitis but a significant buildup of tartar, a debridement is performed. This procedure is significantly more in-depth than a standard teeth cleaning, yet it is essential for doing an accurate assessment of your teeth.
Scaling and root planing, also known as "deep cleanings," are as follows: When the buildup surrounding your teeth begins to pack underneath the gum tissue, the only option to cure gum disease is through a surgery called scaling and root planing. This is the only way to remove the plaque and calculus that has accumulated around your teeth.
During this treatment, our hygienist will use special devices to break up the hard calculus accumulation and drain it away. Afterwards, you will feel significantly better. It is possible that you will require more than one appointment for this operation; the number of appointments required will be directly proportional to the severity of your gum disease.
Surgery of the Gums: If scaling and root planing isn't effective enough at removing all of the buildup below your gums, then you may need to consult a gum specialist, also known as a periodontist, in order to figure out how to treat gum disease in your mouth. Scaling and root planing is a treatment that involves scraping away plaque and tartar from the root surfaces of teeth.
In most cases, you will be required to go through surgery, during which the surgeon will retract your gum tissue and flap it over in order to reveal the buildup and then remove it. After the procedure is finished, your gums will be stitched back into place.
If you've undergone such significant bone loss that your teeth are becoming loose and even falling out, then none of the procedures described above will be effective for you. Because bone does not regenerate, you will need to have your existing teeth extracted and decide on a tooth replacement alternative before any other teeth become involved in the situation. This must be done before any other teeth become implicated.
How to Keep Periodontal Disease at Bay
Gum disease is avoidable; all that is required is a dedication to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. The following is some advice that can help you maintain healthy gums over your lifetime.
At Least Twice Per Day, Brush Your Teeth
Even while brushing your teeth after each meal is ideal, you should at least do it twice a day at the very least. Make an angle of 45 degrees using a toothbrush that has soft bristles, and then tilt the toothbrush so that the bristles may reach under the gum tissue. If you notice any bleeding from your gums, this indicates that you have an infection in those areas. If you detect any blood coming from your gums, don't be afraid to brush your teeth because this will encourage the healing process of your gums.
Daily Flossing
Even though a toothbrush can be highly efficient at cleaning your teeth if it is used in the right way, there is simply no way for it to remove all of the plaque from in between your teeth. Because of this, you should floss at least once every day. The conventional flossing string can be purchased for a low price and works quite effectively. You can use floss picks, or even a water flosser, if that is more to your liking.
Get Regular Dental Cleanings
If you go to the dentist once every six months for a professional cleaning, our hygienists will be able to remove plaque and tartar accumulation from places of your teeth that are difficult to access.
Quit Smoking
If you are a smoker, the time has come to put an end to your habit once and for all. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that smoking reduces the effectiveness of your immune system, making it twice as likely that you may acquire gum disease. In addition, once a person has periodontal disease, it is far more difficult for their gums to recover after an injury. Your chances of developing periodontal disease are increased both by the quantity of cigarettes you smoke and the length of time you've been doing so.
Obtaining the Assistance of Professionals
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is imperative that you seek treatment for gum disease as soon as possible. The gum disease known as periodontitis does not heal on its own, nor can it be treated at home. If you put off going to the dentist, the problem will only become worse.
If it has been a while since you've had your teeth cleaned, there is a good chance that you may be suffering from some form of gum disease. Visit the office of Dr. Cohan, our Summerlin dentist, to get immediate treatment for whatever ails you. We will assess your condition and devise a treatment strategy for the gum disease that is currently present in your mouth. We will get you back on the path to recovery and having a grin on your face once more. Call today!
CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT!
GET TO KNOW YOUR BEST DENTIST IN SUMMERLIN
Dr. Marianne Cohan was voted The Best Dentist/ Dental Office and Best Cosmetic Dentist from The Las Vegas Review-Journal in 2020 and 2021. She received her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the State University of New York at Buffalo in 1992.
With an emphasis on cosmetic dentistry, complete makeovers, and implant dentistry, Dr. Cohan is committed to continuing education and feels that we never stop learning. Dr. Cohan takes pride in using high-powered magnification to perform minimally invasive restorative dentistry. She uses all the latest technological advances including digital radiography, digital photography, computer simulations, and high-resolution pictures of your proposed treatment on 55-inch screens. She also utilizes CBCT (cone beam) and laser technology.
Dr. Cohan is always available to her patients and is available for any dental emergency.
