Did you know that gum disease has been linked to heart attacks and strokes? While it may sound far-fetched, it really is true. The bacteria that are produced when gum disease is present travels through your blood stream causing an inflammatory response that can lead to serious health issues. The biggest problem with this is that most people don’t think about their gums very often. Maybe when the floss slips or when they bleed or feel sore, but otherwise, gums are often thought of as just what hold your teeth in place.
Knowing what an important role your gums play in both oral health and whole body health is clearly more important than you may have thought. Proper gum care starts at home, of course, with the right kind of brushing, flossing and use of an oral irrigator. But regular cleanings and checkups are also crucial for keeping your gums as healthy as they can be. If it has been a while since you had a cleaning or checkup, call me, Dr. Kurt Williams, at (785) 472-3803 today.
“My staff and I never scold or judge patients who haven’t had cleanings in a while – we just celebrate the fact that you are taking a step in the direction of better health!” – Dr. Williams