It has always been a known fact that dental hygiene, brushing the teeth, flossing and regular dental cleanings, were very important. When avoided or ignored gum disease could ensue, causing the teeth to loosen and even fall out. The pain of poorly maintained teeth is widely recognized, and often experienced. And of course, halitosis is very often caused by poor dental hygiene habits.



Bright Side Dental, leading Michigan family dentist, shares new research and discovery that has revealed that many additional health problems are linked to dental trouble. When a person allows gum disease to develop into advanced stages, which is known as periodontitis, such problems as stroke and heart disease can actually be affected. Researchers have also linked periodontitis to low birth weight, premature birth, high blood sugar levels, bacterial pneumonia and even pancreatic cancer.

Bacterial endocarditis has been established, in certain cases, to be associated with periodontal disease. Bacterial endocarditis is an infection in the heart valves, or the lining of the heart, which can cause damage or actually destroy these valves. Additionally, if periodontal disease is present in the body, bacterial endocarditis may then occur in some patients who already have minor heart valve problems.

There is an agreed-upon theory that the bacteria from periodontitis can enter the bloodstream from the infected gums, can then progress into the bloodstream, which will thereby affect the heart. Per the American Heart Association, reports have been published stating bacterial endocarditis is what occurs when bacteria that are in the bloodstream, called bacteremia, embed in the tissues of a damaged heart or on abnormal heart valves.

It is understandably important to keep an eye out for certain symptoms of gum disease. Failure to properly care for the teeth and gums, resulting from poor oral hygiene, is the most frequent cause of periodontitis. Red and swollen gums that bleed easily, gums separating from the teeth, loose teeth, frequent bad breath, a change in the bite or a change in the way partials or dentures fit are some of the signs to watch for.

If discovered early enough ? in the stage called gingivitis, the disease is treatable and is reversible. The more advanced stage, known as periodontitis, is much more serious and can include bone loss. Periodontitis, at this later stage is irreversible.

One other common ailment of the mouth is an infection in the gums that surround a tooth. An abscessed tooth is actually an infection in the gum tissue, which has swollen and usually contains pus, collected in a cavity in the gum. Often painful, it is often warm to the touch. An abscess will develop from a traumatized tooth, such as a broken tooth or from tooth decay. When there is a hole in the outside (enamel) of a tooth, bacteria can enter the tooth and infect the center (pulp) of the tooth, causing an abscess.

Once an abscess has occurred, the infection has the possibility of spreading throughout the mouth and body. Often, a root canal treatment is the only option in order to save the tooth if it has become abscessed.

While it is not at all difficult to prevent gum disease and dental infection, it is potentially quite a serious problem. Remember there are three simple steps that can assist you with oral health. First and second are brushing your teeth very thoroughly, twice a day, and flossing daily. The third step is to always keep regular visits to your dentist for cleaning and check ups. These are the most certain ways to prevent gum disease and, in turn, protect your overall health.

Bright Side Dental, your convenient Michigan dentist, makes it easy schedule your regular appointments. They have three offices to choose from in Livonia, Canton and Sterling Heights and offer evening and Saturday appointments.