Periodontal Disease
We all heard growing up that brushing our teeth was good for us.. but who knew that it was good for our whole body, not just our teeth? That’s right! It turns out that taking care of our teeth and gums is one way to take care of our overall health.
Periodontitis and Tooth Loss
It starts with what the dentist calls Periodontal Disease, or the inflammation of the tissue around the teeth. The most common cause of this inflammation is the buildup of plaque which hardens to become tartar. This contains microorganisms that get down into the crevices between the teeth, the gum and the root of the tooth. When this happens, the supporting tissue around the tooth is destroyed, the bone starts to break down, and the tooth becomes loose. This is the most common cause of tooth loss.
Effect on the Body
Unfortunately it doesn’t end there. The periodontal disease also sends plaque into the blood circulation and can affect various functions of the body, including the heart and the brain. As the infected cells from the mouth enter into the blood stream, they can inflame the cells that form the inner lining of the blood vessels and cause blood clots. That blocks blood flow to the heart and the brain, possibly causing heart attacks and strokes.
Prevention
Good preventive measures start early in life with a daily oral hygiene program, and regular visits to the dentist. Regularly brushing teeth after every meals starts early in life. Selecting an affordable dental plan is also easy. A discounted dental plan makes going to the dentist easier, and that means more regular trips for dental care. All that means preventing the problem called periodontal disease, and preventing far more serious health problems.
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Plans and Programs offered by DentalPlans.com are NOT health insurance policies. Plans and Programs offered by DentalPlans.com provide discounts at certain health care providers for medical services. Plans and Programs offered by DentalPlans.com do not make payments directly to the providers of medical services. The Plan or Program member is obligated to pay for all health care services but will receive a discount from those health care providers who have contracted with the Plan, Program or discount plan organization
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