Dentist in Glen Burnie | Optimal Gum Health for Seniors

Cosmetic Dentist in Glen Burnie, MD

For seniors, it is imperative that gum health is a top priority. As you age, your risk of developing periodontal (gum) disease increases. Periodontal disease is both preventable, and in many cases, reversible. When left untreated, it can lead to more serious complications such as bloody or swollen gums, and even tooth loss. Even more alarming are the numerous studies connecting periodontal disease to other serious illnesses. Here’s what you need to know about gum health as you age.

Periodontal Disease and Your Overall Health

Periodontal disease has been linked to serious health issues. In fact, a recent study conducted by the University of Southampton and King’s College London uncovered a link between periodontal disease and an increase in the rate of cognitive decline in those who suffer from early Alzheimer’s disease. In patients with periodontal disease, the study found cognitive decline underwent a rapid change, occurring six times as fast on average.

Periodontal disease has also been found to increase your risk of developing heart disease or having a stroke. Risk factors for these serious issues increase with age, among other causes, and it is especially important to limit potential risk factors where possible. This can be as easy as improving your gum health with a visit to Glen Park Family Dentistry.

The Numbers You Need to Know

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, moderate or severe periodontal disease was found in over 14% of seniors aged 65 to 74. The number increases to more than 20% for those over 75 years of age. Men were found to be more likely than women to have moderate to severe periodontal disease. Smoking was also found to have a significant impact. The same study showed 32% of current smokers had periodontal disease, compared to 14% for those who never smoked.

Steps You Can Take

As you age, it is essential to keep up with your gum health. Doing so is an important link in lowering your risk factors for other serious ailments such as heart disease, stroke, and the impacts of Alzheimer’s disease. You can keep your gums healthy by brushing twice each day for a full two minutes. Be sure to regularly floss your teeth as well. Flossing is an effective way to clean the hard-to-reach cracks and gaps where plaque builds up. Schedule a visit with our Glen Burnie dentist for a complete gum evaluation. We can work with you to devise a course of action to ensure healthy gums.

Glen Park Family Dentistry
Phone: (410) 761-1100
Url: https://glenparkdentistry.com/
633 Greenway Rd. SE
Glen Burnie, MD 21061

“My passion is in making people feel at home when they come to my office. Sure, you may have had bad experiences in the past, or you might be worried about something that’s going on right now, but we are here to help you. Let’s talk about any concerns you might have, use the latest and greatest in technology to diagnose and explain, and then let’s make a plan that fits your goals.

I’m not here just to fix a cavity or pull that achy tooth - I’m here to make your oral health a part of your overall health, and make sure you are smiling your best smile and living your best life.”

- Dr. Christopher Sanginiti

Meet Our Friendly Team

See What Your Glen Burnie Neighbors are Saying

Dentist in Glen Burnie, MD

Read More Reviews

Office Hours

Monday:8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Tuesday:8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Wednesday:10:00 am – 7:00 pm
Thursday:8:00 am – 3:00 pm
Friday:8:00 am – 1:00 pm
Saturday:Closed
Sunday:Closed

Read Our Glen Burnie Dental News

Dentist in Glen Burnie, MD

October 01, 2023

6 Tips for Preventing Tooth Decay in Children | Glen Burnie MD Dentist

Oral health is important at every stage in life. Just because your children are going to lose their primary (baby) te...

Read More >>

September 15, 2023

Periodontal Disease and Rheumatoid Arthritis | Dentist Glen Burnie, MD

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) are a systemic inflammatory disorder, which is how...

Read More >>

September 01, 2023

The Truth Behind “Natural Whitening” Fads | Dentist Glen Burnie

It seems like there is a new headline nearly every week featuring someone who swears their teeth are whiter and brigh...

Read More >>