The Surprising Side Effect of Gum Disease

Your dentist in Douglasville has known for quite some time that there is a strong link between gum disease and other whole-body concerns, such as an increased risk for heart disease and stroke. But recent research by the American Academy for Cancer Research has also shown a connection between gum disease and the development of colon cancer. During this Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, we want to share the findings so our patients can do everything possible to protect themselves from gum disease and the potential negative side effects. 

Research Results

This new long-term study followed the health of 42,486 Americans, both men, and women, for several decades. The goal was to monitor the health, diet, and results of colonoscopies to determine if there was any possible link between gum disease and colon cancer. While the results did support the theory, researchers say more studies are needed to back up these findings. 

Scientists were interested in looking at two particular types of intestinal lesions that often precede colon cancer — serrated polyps and conventional adenomas — as well as participants’ history of gum disease. They found that those patients who had a history of gum also had: 

• A 17% increased risk of having a serrated polyp
• An 11% increased risk of having a conventional adenoma
• A 20% increased risk of having a serrated polyp if the participant had lost four or more teeth

6 Signs of Gum Disease

Gum disease can present itself in a number of ways, but there are some signs that are more common such as:

• Bad breath that doesn’t go away
• Red, swollen gums
• Gums that bleed
• Loose teeth
• Gum recession
• Pain when chewing
• If you recognize any of these signs of gum disease, call your dentist in Douglasville to schedule an appointment as soon as you can. When gum disease is caught in its earliest stages it can often be treated successfully. However, when gum disease becomes more serious, it can become irreversible. 

Reduce Your Risk of Gum Disease

It’s important to remember that uncontrollable factors such as age and genetics can increase someone’s chances of getting gum disease. But there are also habits and lifestyle factors that we can control that can also increase the risk. Following these tips from your dentist in Douglasville can reduce the likelihood of developing gum disease: 

• Follow a proper oral hygiene routine of brushing twice a day and flossing once a day
• Eat a well-balanced diet
• Stop using tobacco products
• Keep seeing your dentist for bi-annual checkups and cleanings

Gum disease isn’t something to take lightly, and it’s crucial to monitor any changes that occur in the mouth to catch problems before they have a chance to become bigger concerns and cause health problems. If you notice any of the signs of gum disease or it’s been longer than six months since your last visit, schedule a dental appointment today. 

Spring Cleaning Tooth Tips

Spring is a time when many people start to clean out their homes after the winter season, opening windows, cleaning out closets, and even scrubbing baseboards. When it comes to your dental health, your dentist in Douglasville wants to remind all of our patients and neighbors that giving your teeth a “spring cleaning” too can help protect teeth. Here are some tips to help you get started.

• Get a New Toothbrush

You should replace your toothbrush at least every 3-4 months, according to the American Dental Association. If you’ve gone all winter without treating yourself and your teeth to a new toothbrush, now’s the time to start fresh. Choose a toothbrush that has soft bristles, as medium or hard bristles can actually damage your teeth. If you’re using a manual toothbrush, consider upgrading to an electric version. Your dentist in Douglasville can help you find the best toothbrush for you. 

• Check Your Supplies

One key part of spring cleaning a house is to remove all of the expired stuff from the fridge and pantry. Don’t forget to also check your dental supplies. Like most things, dental care items like toothpaste and mouthwash have expiration dates, and it’s important to toss anything that has expired. This may also be a time to try out a new toothpaste or mouthwash. Again, your dentist can make recommendations as to what new items are available and which may be right for you 

• See Your Dentist in Douglasville Regularly

While spring is when most people deep clean their house, it’s also a wise time to schedule a checkup and dental cleaning, especially if it’s been longer than six months since your last visit. Regular dental checkups and cleanings are crucial to maintaining a healthy smile all year round. Preventive dentistry appointments help: 

• Remove plaque buildup that at-home brushing and floss can’t touch
• Catch potential problems early when they’re often easier to treat
• Give your dentist a look under the surface of your teeth through dental x-rays

Oral & Overall Health

There’s a strong connection between oral health and overall health, so it’s important to take care of both. Seeing your dentist twice a year, replacing your toothbrush, toothpaste, and mouthwash regularly, and brushing and flossing every day can go a long way in protecting your smile against decay and oral health diseases such as gum disease.

Celebrate the spring season by treating your teeth to a gentle dental checkup and cleaning.  Call us to schedule an appointment with your dentist in Douglasville today!