International Health Day falls on April 7, and while many people focus on heart disease and diabetes, it is just as important to consider your dental health. As a periodontist in Houston, TX, Dr. J. Robert Friedberg wants you to remember that gum disease is another serious risk to your health that needs regular checking and treatment.

What Is Gum Disease?
Also known as periodontitis, gum disease occurs when you develop an infection around your gums. It often presents through a buildup on the teeth and bleeding gums. If left untreated, periodontitis can lead to a receding gum line, exposing the roots of the teeth and resulting in serious sensitivity to hot and cold beverages and food. In advanced cases, it can even end in losing one or more teeth entirely.

How Is It Related to Other Health Issues?
International Health Day is the perfect time to schedule a checkup with your periodontist because gum disease in Houston, TX is actually directly related to overall health and well-being. In fact, there appears to be somewhat of a relationship between periodontitis and stroke, heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. That is not to say that if you do not brush your teeth that you will develop these problems there are many different factors that go into developing these diseases. The point is that dental care is related to overall health – so taking proper care of your teeth and preventing gum disease could possibly help lower the risk of developing other serious health issues.

What Can You Do To Protect Yourself?
You can lower your risk of developing gum disease by employing proper brushing and flossing habits twice a day. However, even regularly brushing and flossing does not mean periodontitis will not develop. You should also visit your periodontist twice a year to monitor the health of your gums and teeth. Regular screenings are vital to preventing the further development of gum disease and other dental problems. Contact our office or call (281) 674-7754 to schedule a checkup with Dr. Friedberg today.