Gum infections are caused by bacteria that accumulate due to poor dental hygiene. The bacteria forms on your teeth and grows down into the space between gums and teeth (the periodontal pocket). These spaces become fertile breeding grounds for bacteria, causing tenderness, inflammation, bleeding, and infection. If you don’t get rid of these bacteria, it will spread to other parts beyond your mouth.
The Spread Of Bacteria
The bacteria that cause gum disease could spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream. Some of the areas that bacteria could spread to include the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Rampant gum disease can also affect pregnant women significantly; it could cause preterm delivery.
Furthermore, more advanced cases of gum infections have also been linked with heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and osteoporosis. Besides, gum infections have been linked with chronic conditions like lung cancer. The spread of bacteria to the lungs can lead to the development of lung cancer. Studies show that smokers with gum infections are likely to develop lung cancer. This underlines the importance of taking care of your mouth all the time.
The best way to prevent bacteria and gum disease is by maintaining high dental hygiene standards. You should brush your teeth regularly using a soft bristle toothbrush. In addition, you should also floss your teeth on a regular basis. Visiting our offices regularly for dental checkups will also help prevent the condition. Apart from that, you should be careful with the foods you eat. Consuming acidic or sugary foods will weaken the enamel and cause damage to the gums. This is because such foods feed the bacteria that could affect the gums. Therefore, it is very important to avoid the spread of gum infection by having us treat it immediately. Visit our offices for more information on gum infections.
