Conversations about oral health typically revolve around teeth, given the universal appreciation for a bright smile. Yet gum health<\/strong> is at least as important \u2013 if not crucial \u2013 for maintaining overall oral well-being. Experts agree that healthy gums are a vital contributor to overall well-being. Moreover, gum dis-ease can seriously affect the immune system, increasing the risk of serious health conditions. Meanwhile, early gum dis-ease symptoms<\/strong> are often overlooked.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t
Gum dis-ease<\/strong>, or periodontal dis-ease<\/strong>, unfolds as an inflammatory condition. It is primarily caused by the accumulation of plaque on teeth. Our mouths host billions of harmless bacteria which can get trapped within tooth plaque<\/strong>. When they do, they can cause infections, starting with gingivitis<\/strong> (gum inflammation) and potentially escalating to periodontitis<\/strong>, where the gum and bone separate to form pockets that become breeding grounds for infections.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
Gum inflammation<\/strong> and gum dis-ease can lead to the breakdown of bone and connective tissue, culminating in tooth loss<\/strong>. But beyond affecting dental health, periodontitis also compromises the immune system.<\/p>
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Pathogenic bacteria that get stuck underneath tooth plaque release toxins into the bloodstream<\/strong>, triggering the liver to produce C-reactive proteins (CRP). An increase in CRP levels leads to a state of chronic, low-grade inflammation throughout the body, leaving it in a perpetual state of readiness to combat infection. If left untreated, gum dis-ease prompts the body to adapt to this heightened inflammatory state, causing the immune system<\/strong> to become less responsive.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
Gum dis-ease, particularly in its advanced stages like periodontitis, has even been linked to various health conditions including:<\/p>
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For biofeedback practitioners<\/b><\/a>, monitoring clients\u2019 gums is recommended as there is an established link between gum dis-ease and weakened immunity. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), each tooth in the mouth is interconnected with a specific organ and its function. Therefore, when there is dis-ease or imbalance in the mouth, it can affect different areas of the body, leading to disharmony.<\/p>\n
Advice for clients may include consistent oral care<\/strong>, including brushing teeth twice daily, regular flossing, and using an antiseptic mouthwash. A balanced diet<\/a> with limited sugary snacks, avoiding tobacco, and moderating alcohol intake contribute to gum health as well.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"