Learn All About Gum Health During National Gum Care Month

Published: 09/29/2015

Keeping your gums healthy is vital to your overall health. Despite this fact, many people develop gum disease and may not even know it. In fact, recent studies have found that as many as 50% of the American adult population could be suffering from periodontal disease. September is National Gum Care Month, so take this opportunity to ensure your gums are still as healthy as ever.

Know the Signs of Gum Disease

It is important that everyone knows what to look for to spot periodontal disease. You should not wait for your periodontist to spot it, but check your gums regularly. It is common for the affliction to show itself through red, swollen, or tender gums, as well as loose teeth, a receding gumline, occasional bleeding, or persistent bad breath. If you notice any of these symptoms, be sure to make an appointment with your periodontist or general dentist immediately. There are a number of treatments that can be done, so there is no reason not to take action.

Keeping a Healthy Body With Healthy Gums

Studies are always being done to better understand the relationship the gums have with overall health. It is surprising to hear that your gums may cause problems elsewhere in the body until you consider that the mouth is where everything enters. If your gums are unhealthy, bacteria can get into the bloodstream. Unhealthy gums have been linked with:

· heart problems

· dementia

· diabetes

· arthritis

· pregnancy complications

If you ignore periodontal disease, you are not just putting yourself at risk of an unhealthy mouth. To better maintain general health, be sure to take care of your gums.

Take the First Step

Now that it is National Gum Care Month, take the first step and check for the signs of disease. Be sure to make an appointment with Dr. Douglas Genninger, your general dentist in Tampa, FL as well. Call us at 813-968-4808 for more information or to make an appointment.