New Study Shows a Link between Periodontal Disease and Kidney Disease

As we learn more about how oral health affects overall health, one thing is clear: It's never been more important to take charge of your oral health and make it a priority! We've learned that the bacteria that causes periodontal (gum) disease also can contribute to other issues in the body such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, and respiratory illnesses. Now, emerging information is telling us that periodontal disease may also be linked with kidney disease. Your dentist in Fairfax has information on how you can protect your health.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Gum disease occurs when the support system for your teeth, which is your bone and soft tissue become infected. The infection is caused by excessive plaque buildup that allows harmful bacteria below the gum line. Because this happens gradually, it's often hard to detect on your own, which is why regular visits to your dentist are so important. If periodontal disease is left untreated, it will progress and eventually lead to tooth loss. Did you know that gum disease is actually the number one cause of tooth loss in American adults?

What Can I do to Protect My Oral Health?

Your best line of defense against gum disease is your six-month cleaning and checkup appointments. At every checkup, we'll screen you for gum disease, and Dr. Fairfax can actually detect it much earlier than you can, which will give you the opportunity to manage it with less invasive treatment procedures. Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease, and it can often be successfully managed and sometimes even reversed with improvements to your home care routine and a thorough professional cleaning.

Periodontitis is the advanced stage of gum disease, and this will require a deep cleaning that reaches below the gum line and removes the plaque and tartar buildup that's causing the infection. Dr. Fairfax may also recommend antibiotic therapy and even surgery in severe cases.

Gum Disease Treatment in Fairfax

Contact our office today to learn more about periodontal health and schedule your next appointment.