Introduction
Gingivitis, a prevalent yet often underestimated dental condition, signifies the inflammation of the gums caused primarily by the accumulation of plaque and tartar. While it may initially appear as a minor issue, the ramifications of untreated gingivitis can extend far beyond oral health, affecting the overall well-being of an individual. Given that the mouth serves as a critical entry point for food, water, and air into the body, any disruptions in oral health can trigger a cascade of health issues. Understanding the causes, dangers, and preventive measures related to gingivitis is crucial for maintaining not only a healthy smile but also overall health.
Gingivitis is a common disease but its dangers are more dangerous than we think and if the treatment is not started at the right time, it can lead to loss of health. Gingivitis, though primarily a mouth-related issue, affects more than just oral health. Since the mouth is the gateway for food, water, and air into the body, any problems in this area can have an impact on the entire body.
1. What is meant by inflammation of the gums?
Gingivitis is an infection that weakens the foundation of the gums, primarily caused by plaque buildup (bacteria on the teeth) and tartar (yellowing deposits on the teeth). While it begins in the mouth, it can potentially impact the entire body.
2. Causes of gum inflammation
1. Poor dental hygiene
2. Smoking
3. Old age
4. Vitamin C deficiency
5 braces
6. Some medicines used to cure diseases like cancer and HIV are included.
3. Dangers arising from dental inflammation
When plaque, the invisible sticky layer on our teeth that forms with bacteria and food particles left in our mouths, is not cleaned regularly, it hardens and forms tartar. It turns into plaque and becomes very difficult to clean. It damages the gums and can only be removed with the help of a dentist.
Those who clean it with the help of appliances, but if plaque and tartar remain on our teeth for a long time, they cause inflammation in our gums and can cause the following 5 dangers to our body.
1. Oral diseases
First of all, our teeth and gums start to get affected, due to which the teeth start getting spaced, and due to the weakening of the gums, the teeth start moving and it becomes difficult to chew food. Bleeding while brushing teeth, bad taste in mouth all the time and bad breath can also be faced.
2. Heart diseases
Gingivitis leads to the buildup of harmful bacteria, which can damage the heart valves and the lining of the heart. Because it gets into the blood and reaches the heart and causes heart disease and blockage of blood vessels. To avoid heart disease, it is important to take care of your gums and get regular check-ups with a specialist doctor.
3. Causes of cancer
A seemingly minor inflammation can lead to the effects of a deadly disease such as cancer in the mouth. The bacteria caused by gingivitis can easily enter the alimentary canal and spread an infection that can harbor cancer germs in the alimentary canal. Helps in growth and causes throat and stomach cancer.
According to a study conducted from 1998 to 2016, 30 percent of people who suffered from gingivitis had esophageal cancer and 40 percent had stomach cancer.
4. Respiratory diseases
This bacterium that causes inflammation of the gums not only reaches the stomach through the alimentary canal, but can also reach the lungs through the respiratory tract and cause severe damage to the lungs and cause respiratory diseases. The most common respiratory issues linked to gingivitis are pneumonia and respiratory tract infections.
5. strokes
A stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain suddenly ruptures or becomes blocked. In simple words, it is also called paralysis. This common inflammation can cripple a walking person and sometimes it can be fatal as we all know that the main cause of stroke or stroke is any kind from stress, whether due to anger or any form of emotional pressure. He suffers from anxiety.
So the blood pressure in his body becomes higher than normal and the risk of stroke also increases. Similarly, when bacteria from gingivitis enter the bloodstream, they can cause blockages in the veins. The increased pressure may lead to a rupture in a blood vessel, potentially resulting in paralysis.
4. Ways to remove gum inflammation
Even a little carelessness can affect the gums. Below are some tried and tested methods that can be incorporated into your daily life to not only prevent gum inflammation but also prevent all related diseases.
1. Dental cleaning
The main cause of gingivitis is carelessness in taking care of dental hygiene because it is due to this carelessness that plaque and tartar accumulate on the teeth. Brush twice with a soft-bristled brush to prevent plaque and tartar from building up.
2. Use of mouthwash
Using a good antibacterial mouthwash once a day can also kill inflammation-causing bacteria.
3. Balanced diet
Consuming a balanced diet that contains adequate amounts of vitamin C and calcium can strengthen the gums and protect against many diseases.
4. Avoidance of smoking
Smoking is bad for health, its excessive use causes inflammation in the mouth and gums.
Conclusion
In conclusion, gingivitis is a significant health concern that requires attention and proactive management. The connection between gum inflammation and systemic health issues, such as heart disease, cancer, respiratory illnesses, and strokes, underscores the importance of oral hygiene. By adopting effective dental care practices, including regular brushing, using mouthwash, maintaining a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of gum inflammation and its associated dangers. Ultimately, prioritizing oral health is a vital step towards ensuring overall well-being and preventing serious health complications.
