Health Care

Recent studies have proven that there is an increase in a risk for heart disease in those patients who have periodontal gum disease. The most common strain of bacteria found in dental plaque may cause blood clots. Once these clots escape into the bloodstream, there's an increased risk for a heart attack.

If you notice a bleeding gum that is often red and irritated, or if you've noticed that your breath is bad, you may have a gum infection.

According to the American Academy of Periodontology, there are several theories that explain the link between periodontal and heart disease. One theory is that oral bacteria can affect the heart when they enter the blood stream, attaching to fatty plaques in the coronary arteries (heart blood vessels) and contributing to clot formation. Coronary artery disease is characterized by a thickening of the walls of the coronary arteries. Blood clots can obstruct normal blood flow, restricting the amount of nutrients and oxygen required for the heart to function properly. This may lead to heart attacks.

In fact, periodontal disease may increase your risk for other health concerns including a weakened immune system, diabetes, stroke, lung and respiratory disease, preterm, osteoporosis and even low birth babies. Some of these are threatening to life.

How do people know if they have periodontal gum disease? When you brush your teeth, your gums bleed. And are red, tender and swollen. Other signs are when permanent teeth become loose or separate. And if you have persistent bad breath. People with periodontal disease have an infection that causes chronic inflammation of the gums. This is a path for these bacteria to enter the bloodstream.

Many other diseases have early warning signs, but gum disease often progresses without pain and silently. More than half of all people over 18 have at least the early stages of periodontal disease, and the numbers increase to three out of four people who are over 35. The worse part is that it not only destroys the gum surrounding your teeth, but the supporting bone that holds your teeth in place. If there are pockets or spaces between your gums and teeth, your dentist may suggest a course of treatment that will help stop further damage to your gums and bones.

One Beverly Hills dentist recommends periodontal disease treatment that includes regular appointments with your dental team to make sure there's no plaque build-up. You should also attack plaque on a daily basis by using a one-step powered tooth brush.

The Swedish Dental Journal says that it helps remove plaque bacteria twice as fast as a regular tooth brush.

Kristin Gabriel is a Los Angeles-based writer and PR professional. One of her clients, Dr. Bijan Afar, an oral surgeon, is also based in Los Angeles, and owns five dental clinics, including the Wilshire Dental Clinic. For more information, visit http://www.wilshiredental.com

by Nancy

How Important Is Flossing?

In one word...very! Flossing not only cleans areas of the teeth where ordinary toothbrushes can't reach, it is a key factor in preventing gum disease. Brushing is an excellent beginning, but flossing is a crucial factor when it comes to keeping healthy teeth. The bacterium that gets caught in the nooks and crannies between teeth and in the tight spaces that toothbrushes can't reach is removed by flossing.

Bacteria, if not removed regularly, may cause a host of problems in a person's mouth. For instance, a byproduct of the bacteria is acid; this acid eats into the enamel of otherwise teeth and creates cavities. Another byproduct of the bacteria is a sulfur compound which causes halitosis.

Remnants of food, combined with remaining bacteria turns into plaque. Plaque, left hanging around between the teeth will become a stronger more toothbrush resistant substance called tarter. Tarter is not removed by normal brushing. Tarter remover requires the professional services of a dentist.

Tarter left alone allows the bacteria to breed and cause a more serous condition called gingivitis. Gingivitis occurs when the bacteria emits toxins that irritate the gums and causes redness and swelling. Left alone, it worsens and causes periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease occurs when the bacteria have been allowed to manifest and invade not only the gums, but also the bones. This is dangerous because the bones are the very support structure that holds teeth in place. Left untreated, teeth will fall out.

I Haven't Flossed In A While. What Should I Expect?

If you haven't flossed in quite a while, there is a possibility that you may see a hint of blood on the floss and in your mouth. This means that your gums are somewhat irritated and are really in need of flossing. Don't give up. Keep flossing. Over a period of time, with regular flossing and brushing, the red should diminish and eventually go away. If it does not,pay a visit to your dentist.

How Often Should I floss?

According to the American Dental Association, you should brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once a day.

What About My Children? When Should They Start Flossing?

The minute two teeth are able to rub together, thus creating a condition whereby food and bacteria can hide and grow, start flossing. Of course when they are young, they will require parental guidance. Continue to do so until you feel comfortable that your child can properly floss unaided.

How Do I Floss?

1.) Use about 18 inches of floss and wind most of it around the middle finger of one hand and the rest around the middle finger of the other hand.

2.) Gently guide the floss between your teeth with a rubbing motion.

3.) Once the floss nears your gum line curve the floss against one tooth in a 'C' shape. Slide it gently in the space between you tooth and gum.

4.) While keeping the floss against the tooth, gently, with an up and down motion, move the floss away from the gum.

5.) Repeat as needed.

6.) Remember to floss between all of your teeth, even the hard to reach ones in the back of your mouth. Also floss the back of the last teeth.

7.) Remember this is a gentle motion. Do not use a frontward, backward sawing motion. That can cause injury and prove to be painful.

About the Author

pcsecurityalert.com is a website packed with dental care information and more about .It provides in one word...very! Flossing not only cleans areas of the teeth where ordinary toothbrushes can't reach, it is a key factor in preventing gum disease