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What Are Your Gums Saying About Your Health, Douglasville?

In our last blog, we discussed what periodontal (gum) disease is, some of the signs and symptoms that may indicate the disease, and how important it is to come see us at our Douglasville dental office as soon as possible if you’re experiencing any of those symptoms. Today we’re going to tell you why a quick diagnosis and early treatment of periodontal disease is so important.

Your gums are the window to your overall health. They not only let us know if there is an issue in your mouth, they can also indicate other problems within your body. And when they’re infected, they can make you more susceptible to serious health issues and diseases.

In fact, people with gum disease are more prone to strokes, heart attacks, heart disease, certain cancers, and diabetes, among other severe health concerns.

How can a disease in your mouth cause problems in the rest of your body?

There are four main ways that periodontal disease can lead to other serious health concerns.

1. Bloodstream – Chewing food injects infectious bacteria into your bloodstream, which is then carried throughout your body.

2. Breathing – Periodontal bacteria can be breathed into the lungs and increase the chance of lung disease.

3. Transmission – Periodontal infection can be transferred directly from spouse to spouse and parent to child through a simple kiss.

4. Immune System – Gum disease can lower your immune system, making you less effective at fighting off infections.

While we know that gum disease can lead to serious medical problems and diseases, at Jim G. Williams, DMD, we also know that early diagnosis and proactive treatment can keep gum disease from causing any of these major health concerns. That’s why keeping up with your regularly scheduled visits is so important.
If you’re due for an exam, call our Douglasville dental office today at 855-410-2757 to schedule your appointment. We look forward to seeing you!

Who Cares About Gum Disease in Douglasville?

At Jim G. Williams, DMD, LLC in Douglasville, we do! In fact, we’re going to devote the next few blogs to gum disease. We want all our patients to be aware of the signs of gum disease, and how important it is to prevent it, or treat it at the first signs.

Periodontal Disease

“Periodontal disease” is the technical name for gum disease, an infection of those tissues that support and surround your teeth. Gingivitis is early-stage gum disease and periodontitis is a more advanced and serious infection. Periodontitis can lead to loose, or even lost teeth.

Signs of gum disease include:

• Gums that bleed during and after tooth brushing

• Red, swollen or tender gums

• Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth

• Receding gums

• Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums

• Loose or shifting teeth

If you notice any of these symptoms, call us ASAP! At Jim G. Williams, DMD, LLC, we will determine if you have periodontal disease and recommend treatment options for you. Our first priority is to save your natural teeth. Restorative dentistry can work wonders, but there’s nothing like smiling with your own teeth.
If you’re due for a regular visit, or have any concerns about your dental health, give us a call at our Douglasville dental office.