Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss, but unhealthy gums can also increase your risk of general health complications as well. Here’s what you need to know about the link between your gums and overall health.
Recent research published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention suggests postmenopausal women with gum disease are at an increased risk for breast cancer. According to the study – conducted on more than 73,700 women in conjunction with the Women’s Health Initiative Observational Study – current and former smokers with gum disease are at the highest risk. However, even women who have never smoked see risks increase 14% when gum disease is present.
Gum disease may seem like an oral health issue alone, but it is a systemic problem that is linked to increased risks for a number of deadly conditions including:
Gum disease is also known to complicate pregnancy and can result in premature birth and low birth weight.
The easiest way to prevent gum disease is to brush after every meal and floss morning and night. These daily preventive measures should be combined with twice yearly visits to our office for professional cleanings and examinations, allowing The Woodlands dentist Dr. Scott Young to detect early signs of gum disease and provide treatment before serious issues arise.
To schedule your next visit with Dr. Young, please contact us today. We welcome patients from the entire Houston area at our office in The Woodlands.
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Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss, but unhealthy gums can also increase your risk of general health complications as well. Here’s what you need to know about the link between your gums and overall health.
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