If you were with us for the last five issues, you’ll recall Threat #1 to your dental health was Neglect, Threat #2—Under-treatment, Threat #3—Over-treatment , Threat #4—diet and Threat #5—Medications.

This week we’re going to discus Threat #6, Overall Health. Several conditions can contribute to gum disease but diabetes is one of the most significant. How so?

Diabetics, totaling over 20 million Americans as of 2005 according to the Center for Disease Control, are highly susceptible to micro circulatory system problems, which puts them at a greater risk for gum disease.

Why? Because when the micro circulatory system suffers, the little blood vessels and veins responsible for carrying antibodies and oxygen to various parts of the body are compromised. 

When this happens, toxins and other by-products are not removed as quickly or thoroughly as before.  Gum disease is often a common result.

But that’s not the only overall health risk affecting healthy gums. Others include seizure disorders and pregnancy gingivitis.  

Seizure sufferers, who often take medications that can cause gum “growth,” find it difficult to keep their teeth and gums healthy without regular cleaning.

Pregnancy gingivitis, on the other hand, often occurs when pregnant women experience a change in hormonal concentrations causing their gums to swell and become inflamed. 

While pregnant women with this condition typically respond easily to home care, and the condition usually goes away after childbirth, it does pose a significant risk to the baby if not properly treated.  

Why? Because gum disease is a contributing factor to low birth weight in babies, a condition that can have long-term affects on development and the child’s health.

To learn more about how you can avoid these health concerns contact our dental health consultants at (804) 320-6800.