Why Periodontal (Gum) Care Matters

Periodontal (Gum) Disease affects more than your teeth or even beyond your mouth. Gum disease or periodontitis, as it’s also known, has an impact from your teeth through the bloodstream and even into the heart and respiratory systems.

First, periodontal disease is the LEADING cause of adult tooth loss. The destructive power of this gum tissue infection is significant. Consider that TOTAL tooth loss is occurring in over 22 percent of the US population by the age of 65. While in Michigan we are farther down the percentage ladder – at just over 17% – the difference is not much consolation to those who have lost teeth.

As a doctor of dentistry, Traverse City dentist Dr. Brian Klym is highly trained in oral health enhancement. However, improving overall health is also part of his mission. And, gum disease is a critical area where oral and overall health converge.

While losing teeth is a devastating experience, many people are likely to have other serious health complications before gum disease seriously affects their smile. According to recent medical studies, illnesses like heart disease, diabetes, and pneumonia can be caused by the infectious buildup of plaque and in the periodontal pockets around your teeth.

Many of the connections between tooth loss and your health can be traced to insufficient oral hygiene, which can cause more problems than simply a cavity or bad breath. To further reduce your risk of any gum problems, decrease your stress, eat a well-balanced diet, stop smoking, and get treatment for tooth grinding if it’s an issue.

You’ll be able to start breathing easier and smiling wider if you’re proactive about your overall health, and you can prevent further complications of gum disease by paying attention to your oral health.

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Red & inflamed gums
Bleeding gums
Loose teeth
Sore gums
Swollen gums
Changes in your bite
Bad breath
Sensitive teeth
Ill-fitting Dentures
Gums pulling away from your teeth

Your Next Step

By following Dr. Klym’s instructions, brushing and flossing daily and between meals, and visiting our Traverse City, MI practice twice each year for cleaning and check-ups, you can avoid the problems associated with periodontal disease. We encourage you to call for a consultation and we wish you best of luck on your journey to a healthy and successful smile.