Have you skipped those regular dental visits due to Covid-19? If yes, you’re not alone. Lots of people have missed dental exams and teeth cleanings over the past year. It may seem that it's not a big deal missing your dental appointments however skipping a dental appointment can lead to more serious and dangerous oral health problems other than just a toothache.
Many dental offices have now reopened and are considered safe by experts. This is the time to schedule your appointment and catch up on your oral health. When it comes to health, anything can change in the matter of time; this is why it’s very important to schedule dental appointments twice a year. Dentists are able to detect and catch any changes to your oral health, such as gum disease, more when you see them often.
Gum disease has been linked to numerous dangerous health problems that can cause heart attacks or strokes. Periodontal disease has been linked to an increased risk for cardiovascular disease due to chronic inflammation. A study conducted in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology linked periodontal disease to severe Covid-19 complications. Of the 568 patients studied, those with periodontitis were at a higher risk of complications which includes admission to an intensive-care unit, needing a ventilator, and death.
Gum disease tends to start out mildly; which is an inflammation, redness and swelling called gingivitis. If not addressed and treated properly, gingivitis will advance into periodontitis; which causes inflammation around the tooth, that causes the gums to pull away from the teeth and form pockets that become infected. An infection caused by decay or a broken tooth can form an abscess in the bone or tissue and trigger sepsis, the body's deadly response to infections. Bacteria from the mouth often travels to other parts of the body such as the lungs or infect heart valves. Researchers are now exploring links between periodontitis and types of cancer.
Prevention is the best strategy. Prevention includes brushing and flossing daily, and attending dental appointments. Matonti Dental is here for you during these difficult times. We want you to feel safe and comfortable in our care. We strive to keep our patients safe and healthy. To book an appointment, please call us at (239) 262-7700.