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The Surprising Perils of Periodontal Disease

Researchers have long suspected a connection between oral health and diseases such as diabetes and heart failure. Now they have proof...

Gum disease can burn largely under the radar for years, progressing slowly, but surely. Unlike other infections, it may not be painful–perhaps just a little chewing discomfort. The only real sign may be a little blood in the sink after brushing, which is often ignored. “If you were bleeding from anywhere else, would you consider it normal?” asks Suvan.

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 The ‘Quiet Disease’ Lingering in Our Mouths

Good oral hygiene is key to preventing gum disease, because it removes plaque from the teeth before bacteria can harm the gums. Often, people develop gingivitis because they aren’t brushing and flossing adequately. Sometimes, only parts of the gums become affected — especially the gums around the backs of the teeth where people often don’t brush as well...

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The connection between gum disease and diabetes — three things you may not know

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What 22 years of terrible gum disease has taught me about pain, shame and politics

I need to talk about my 22 years of chronic periodontitis and all the wisdom I’ve gained from it. People who’ve never heard of it look nonplussed when you tell them it’s a fancy word for gum disease, while the people who have heard of it, well, that’s because they’ve also got it. We’re more important on this occasion, because our lives are worse.

Your ultimate guide to gum disease

Time to become chums with your gums.

Resources

CDC

Periodontal diseases are mainly the result of infections and inflammation of the gums and bone that surround and support the teeth. In its early stage, called gingivitis, the gums can become swollen and red, and they may bleed. In its more serious form, called periodontitis, the gums can pull away from the tooth, bone can be lost, and the teeth may loosen or even fall out. Periodontal disease is mostly seen in adults. Periodontal disease and tooth decay are the two biggest threats to dental health.