We love creating the kind of smiles that reflect the inner beauty of each patient. While cosmetic dental treatments are one of our specialties, we also recognize the vital importance of healthy teeth and gums. Oral health is one of the pillars on which general health relies. More and more research points to this fact; and as it does, we continue to work hard to educate patients on the value of oral hygiene and routine dental care.
Oral Health and the Body
The whole idea of “oral systemic health” used to be primarily associated with holistic dentists who avoid using certain dental materials and treatments, thinking that they could have a detrimental effect on the body. Today, we see just how valid the theory is that the mouth directly correlates to general health and wellness. Here’s how . . .
Let’s say you are enjoying a day tending to your garden, and you get stuck with a thorn. You may notice very quickly that your skin becomes red. Depending on just how deep the thorn poked, you may experience slight swelling around the tiny puncture wound. These are signs that the body has jumped into action with the natural inflammatory response it uses to heal wounds. Well, a problem like gum disease is a wound, also, according to the body. Seeing the injury, the immune system continues to promote inflammation in an attempt to resolve the issue. We know this is not enough. Gum disease requires appropriate, focused treatment in order to put an end to the inflammation surrounding it. Otherwise, the entire body enters into a state of chronic inflammation. And this, folks, sets the stage for disease.
It’s not Just Inflammation
In addition to the ticking time bomb of inflammation, the gum disease problem also delivers bacteria to other parts of the body. Researchers have located the same bacterium identified in periodontal disease in individuals with heart disease. When bacteria enter the arteries, the subsequent inflammation causes them to become somewhat blocked, increasing the risk for a cardiac event.
Gum disease is serious business. We help our patients address this problem head on so their health does not suffer. To schedule your visit at Galleria Dental Aesthetics, call 703-448-1020.