Do you struggle with high blood pressure? There are various different factors that can contribute to this. One that you may not be thinking about is gum disease. This is an infection of the gum tissue that affects nearly half of Americans over the age of thirty! Fortunately, while gum disease is very common, it is also preventable. Continue reading to learn about the connection between high blood pressure and gum disease, as well as how you can keep your gums healthy going forward.
What Is the Connection Between Gum Disease and High Blood Pressure?
Many different health factors can raise blood pressure. This includes both viral and bacterial infections. This is why blood pressure is temporarily increased when you have an illness, like the flu, strep throat, or pneumonia. However, infections aren’t limited to these illnesses. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissue that surrounds your teeth. As your immune system attempts to fight off this infection, raising your blood pressure. The harmful bacteria present in periodontal disease can also lead to inflammation of the heart valves and blood vessels, further increasing your blood pressure.
How Can Gum Disease Be Prevented?
Even though gum disease is very common, it is also easy to prevent. Here are some oral hygiene and other lifestyle tips to keep your gums in good health.
- Brush your teeth with a fluoridated toothpaste twice daily.
- Floss your teeth once a day.
- See your dentist for routine cleanings and checkups.
- Enjoy a healthy diet rich in fiber and protein.
- Avoid using tobacco products.
- Limit your alcohol intake.
- Get plenty of rest each night.
How Is Gum Disease Treated?
If you are showing signs of gum disease, your dentist can help with gum disease treatment. There are various treatment options available to help eliminate this infection. Here are some popular options.
- Scaling & Root Planing: This is a two-step process that takes place over two appointments. First, your dentist will thoroughly clear away plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. Then, they will smooth out the roots of your teeth to help the gums reattach and promote healing.
- Laser Periodontal Therapy: Laser periodontal treatment uses a beam of light to accurately remove severely damaged and infected gum tissue to give your smile the best chance of healing. It cauterizes the tissue along the way, meaning a more comfortable treatment and quicker recovery time.
If you have high blood pressure, it is worth assessing your gum health. By taking steps to keep your gum tissue in optimal shape, you can improve your overall wellbeing.
About the Practice
At Westgate Dental Care, we have a team of skilled dentists serving patients in the Arlington Heights community. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. This includes gum disease treatment. If you have concerns about your gum health, they would be happy to help. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (847) 577-7171.