The CDC says that almost half of all-American adults have gum disease. Around 5.5 million of those cases are advanced. By the age of 65, about 7 out of 10 men and women have periodontal disease. Is it dangerous? It depends on the severity.
What Are the Dangers of Gum Disease?
The biggest risk of gum disease is tooth loss. When the gum tissue is inflamed, it can cause problems with the jawbone. As the bone weakens, tooth loss is a serious risk. Tooth loss can make it hard to eat solid foods, which impacts nutrition.
In addition, there are links between cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Experts believe that gum disease may increase the risk of stroke. One study found that people who had oral infection were more likely to have an ischemic stroke.
There’s also evidence linking gum disease to certain forms of cancer. Pancreatic, cancer, and blood cancers seemed to occur more often in men with gum disease. The final risk is in respiratory diseases like pneumonia. Bacteria in the mouth and oral cavity may get aspirated and cause aspiration pneumonia.
How Do You Prevent It?
Routine dental care is the best way to prevent gum disease. Make sure you’re going at least once a year for dental exams. Brush your teeth after each meal. Floss the teeth at least once a day and make sure you’re flossing properly. Finally, use a mouthwash designed to reduce plaque and protect against germs that can cause gingivitis.
Avoid bad habits. Smoking, indulging in alcoholic beverages, and your family history all increase the risk of gum disease. If you know your parents both had gum disease, talk to your dentist and make sure you’re getting exams and cleanings as often as your insurance allows. If you smoke, take strides to break the habit. Talk to your doctor about smoking cessation products and therapy programs.
If your mom or dad have a hard time brushing and flossing teeth, it’s a good time to research caregivers. Caregivers help with many daily tasks. They can do more than prepare meals, escort your parents to stores and offices, and tidy the home. They assist with personal care and can help brush and floss teeth.
Call a home care agency to talk more about the benefits of caregivers. Your parents don’t have to put their health at risk struggling to take care of their teeth. Caregivers are happy to help.
If you or an aging loved-one is considering a Caregiver in Irvine, CA, please contact the caring staff at Easy Living Home Care today. Providing Non-Medical Home Care Services in Orange County, CA since 2009. Call for Assistance: (949) 282-5017 or (949) 842-6831.
At a very young age it was always Ms. LaPorte’s passion to work with the elderly. She was a caregiver at a nursing home in high school and college and volunteered in senior centers and senior events held by the city in which she grew up. After graduation, Ms. LaPorte became a special education teacher for sixteen years.
She put her teaching career on the sidelines to raise two wonderful children, during which her passion for the elderly inspired her to start Easy Living Home Care in 2009. Ms. Laporte wanted to help people, especially seniors, find competent, qualified, and caring in-home care at reasonable rates.
Ms LaPorte takes an active role in conducting and managing all operations of her business. She is patient, compassionate and listens. Ms. Laporte is always available to her clients and staff.
In her spare time, Lori volunteers for the American Red Cross and Leashes of Love canine rescue organization.