Healthy gums are vital for overall health, but many people in Marlborough, MA need to understand the powerful connection between gum health and inflammation. Inflammation is a body’s natural reaction to infection or injury, but chronic inflam­mation, especially around the gums, can cause serious health problems. This article discusses how gum health relates to inflammation, the possible health risks, and how to keep your gums healthy as recommended by the dentist in Marlborough, MA

Understanding Gum Health

Healthy gums are firm, pink, and fit snugly around the teeth. The risk of gum disease (which begins as gingivitis and, if left untreated, can develop into periodontitis) is increased by bad oral hygiene. Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease, and it causes red, swollen gums that may bleed when you brush or floss. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, where the inner layer of the gum and bone separate from the teeth, causing pockets that can become infected.

How Inflammation Hijacks Gum Disease

Inflammation is the body’s normal response to infection and injury. When it comes to gum disease, inflammation starts when the body tries to fight bacteria in plaque. Short-term inflammation is good, and chronic inflammation is bad. Ongoing inflammation in the gums can destroy tissues and bone, causing tooth loss and other problems.

Gingivitis and Inflammation

The main cause of gingivitis is plaque that builds up on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms when the sugars and starches in food come into contact with bacteria typically found in the mouth. If plaque is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, which further irritates the gums and increases inflammation

The Association of Periodontitis with Chronic Inflammation

If gingivitis develops into periodontitis, the inflammation becomes chronic. The gums begin to separate from the teeth, creating potentially infectious pockets. The bone and connective tissue that support the teeth deteriorates due to the immune system’s ongoing struggle with the bacteria. Periodontitis-related chronic inflammation is not only a local problem; it can also have systemic effects and exacerbate other health issues.

Gum Disease and Its Systemic Health Impact

In conclusion, chronic inflammation in the gums can have serious consequences beyond the mouth. Gum disease has been associated with multiple systemic health problems including:

Cardiovascular Disease: The link between gum disease and cardiovascular disease is well established. The bacteria from the infected gums can get into the bloodstream and add to the plaque in the artery, thus leading to atherosclerosis or the buildup of destroying cholesterol which can contribute to heart attacks and strokes. The inflammation of periodontal disease is also believed to be linked to the development of cardiovascular disease.

Diabetes: Gum disease and diabetes are correlated in both directions. Gum disease can be exacerbated by high blood sugar, and gum disease-related inflammation might make blood sugar regulation more challenging. For people with diabetes, maintaining good gum health is essential to avoiding problems and preserving general health.

Respiratory Issues: Bacteria associated with periodontal disease are also aspirated into the lungs, which can cause respiratory infections including pneumonia. This is especially risky for older adults and people with weakened immune systems.

Neglecting gum’s direct health results in oral and systemic health problems; it can be better understood with the link between gum and inflammation. For those living in Marlborough, MA, knowing this relationship is the beginning of achieving healthy gums and well-being. Now is the perfect time to also practice good oral hygiene, visit the dentist regularly, eat healthy, and follow good lifestyle habits to prevent gum disease and inflammation for a healthy future.