As scary as it is to think about, let alone really consider, there may be a possible link between Alzheimer's and gum disease. As most of us are well aware, Alzheimer's Disease is a devastating problem which causes a person to forget - everything. They often forget how to do things. They can forget things they have done. They can even forget their family members. The degeneration only continues from there. The disease is hard on the person suffering from it and on everyone who takes care of that person.
We also know that gum disease is a serious enough problem that a number of other diseases are linked to it.It seems as if the list continues to grow more and more. You can probably see why it is imperative to maintain excellent oral health. Your life may very well depend on taking impeccable care of your gums and teeth.
It is now suspected that there may be a link between Alzheimer's Disease and, specifically, the gum disease known as gingivitis. Particularly, this is a real threat if gingivitis is left untreated and is thus allowed to grow into something more serious, such as periodontitis.
Considering the fact that anywhere from fifty to seventy five percent of the population in the US may have gingivitis, you can see the enormous risk here. The odds are almost too painful to think about.
The problem is that it is so easy for gum disease to go unnoticed - or even ignored. It is thus vital that you pay close attention to your teeth and your gums. If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, that is a sign of gingivitis. If you suspect you might have it, you need to catch it early. Taking care of your teeth is easy. So is saving your life through excellent oral hygiene.
Gum disease is a serious problem that you should take serious care about. It is not just a problem of losing one's teeth. More and more research is showing the connection between gum disease and more serious problems such as heart disease, stroke, lung infections, diabetes, low birth weight and preterm babies.
One problem that is predominate is that most people have no clue they have this disease until things are out of control. Generally, people do not notice until their gums bleed or their teeth become loose. You do not want to be in this category.
Studies have shown that many dentists are not actually very focused on this problem. Consequently, even those who for regular checkups may be at risk.
Take care of this problem now, before it becomes worse. Next, follow the links below in order to find out what you can do from home to defeat gum disease.
Disclaimer: If you have or think you might have gum disease or any other health problem, please visit your doctor or periodontist for advice, diagnosis and treatment. This article is for information purposes only and does not intend to provide advice, diagnosis or treatment for any health condition.
How To Treat Periodontal Disease
Have you ever wanted to know the difference between periodontal disease and gum disease? Well, they are one in the same. The word periodontal means "around the tooth." Gum (periodontal) disease is a series of chronic bacterial infections that destroy the tissues and supporting bones surrounding your teeth. It may be isolated to just one tooth or affect several teeth at a time.
Healthy Gums vs. Unhealthy You can do an at home evaluation if you know what to look signs to look for. Healthy gums will be pink or coral in color, firm, fit snugly around your teeth, and will not bleed easily. Some signs that you have unhealthy of gums may include red swollen gums that bleed easily, persistent bad breath, receding gum lines, changes in how your teeth fit together, and you may experience tooth sensitivity.
Symptoms and Stages
I am sure you have heard the term gingivitis, but did you know it is the beginning stage of gum (periodontal) disease? Gingivitis only affects the gum surrounding your teeth. It begins when bacteria toxins from plaque irritate the gums causing them to become red, swollen, and to bleed easily. Have you noticed any blood on your toothbrush or dental floss? Dental bleeding is considered abnormal and is an indication of poor oral health. Generally there is no discomfort associated with gingivitis and therefore it tends to go unnoticed or untreated. Unless you have suffered from it or know someone who has, you probably aren't familiar with aggressive periodontitis. Aggressive periodontitis is more commonly known as pyorrhea. This is the second stage of gum (periodontal) disease caused from the accumulation of bacteria toxins below your gum line. The inner layer of your gum tissues and bone begin to recede and po cketsbegintoformbetweenyourteethandgums.These pockets are v-shaped crevices called periodontal pockets. The depth of the pocket formation usually determines the severity of the disease. If you should notice any of the following symptoms you should see your dental care provider: chronic bad breath or (halitosis), gum tenderness, and bad taste because they are associated with this stage of the gum (periodontal) disease.
The third stage of gum (periodontal) disease is called chronic periodontitis. It is mainly associated with rapid and progressive bone and attachment loss. You can recognize chronic periodontitis by noticeable gum recession and/or the formation of deep pockets along your gums. As the infection spreads you may notice pus within the pockets. This stage of gum (periodontal) disease is painful and there will not be any tissue or bone remaining to anchor your teeth into their sockets. Your teeth will continue become progressively looser and tooth loss will be inevitable.
Prevention and Treatment
You need to see a professional dental care provider if you suspect any of the above symptoms. Early detection of gum disease can be reversed, but if untreated you are possibly going to experience irreversible tooth loss. Several non-surgical and surgical dental procedures are available that can reverse or restore your dental health. The treatment plan you dentist provides will depend on what stage and the severity of the disease you have. You can make a considerable difference in preventing gum (periodontal) disease with adequate oral care such as brushing and flossing your teeth daily.
Both Scott Wells & Sung Lee are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Scott Wells has sinced written about articles on various topics from Education, Language. Grab your free report: at
