Prevention is the Key

Just like the rest of your body, prevention is the key to having good oral health. Maintaining healthy teeth and gumscan make a difference to the foods you can eat and your enjoyment of life. Most of us have had a toothache or sore mouth for some reason at one time or another and it's not fun. 

When you experience pain in your mouth or jaw,frequently the pain is felt more strongly than in other parts of the body because it is close to the brain. Dr. Westersund, Calgary dentist, believes prevention is crucial--it's  important to stop problems before they arise, not treat them afterwards.

Healthy AND attractive

And let's not forget, good oral health contributes to a more attractive smile!

Research shows that gum disease is present in almost 50 percent of teenagers and 75 percent of adults over the age of 35. Why?

There's a number of reasons, but the main contributing factors are:

          • Poor diet (too much sugar and starch)
          • Poor oral hygiene (you can actually get the bacteria through exchange of saliva by kissing!)
          • Stress
          • Smoking 

Consequences 

The warning signs of poor oral health include sore gums and bleeding during brushing and flossing. Left untreated, gum disease can occur. The consequences can be severe. Gum disease, or gingivitis, can:

          • Affect birthweight in unborn babies
          • Contribute to heart disease and stroke
          • Limit insulin effectiveness for diabetics
          • Lead to osteoporosis, diabetes or bacterial respiratory infections

Serious progression

Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease. If it isn't treated, gingivitis can lead to irreversible damage to the gums and bones around the roots or teeth. It can also lead to other, far more serious health issues.

How does it start?

Periodontitis begins like this:

          • Plaque spreads and grows below your gum line           
          • Plaque bacteria produce toxins, which irritate and inflame the gums
          • Bacteria then enters your bloodstream, potentially causing damage
            to your internal organs, blood vessels and can injure an unborn fetus
          • Tissue and bone that support your teeth break down

How is periodontitis treated?

If you are concerned or know that you have periodontitis, please don't leave it untreated. Schedule a Complimentary Consultation with a Treatment Coordinator or a more In-Depth Evaluation with Dr. Westersund ($200.00). Dr. Westersund will answer your questions, discuss treatment options with you and help you find solutions that fit within your budget.

Your health is the most important thing you have. Don't lose it.