Your dental health may be more important that you know and what you don't know could kill you. You have known since you were a kid in elementary school that brushing, flossing, and going to the dentist regularly for checkups are all important for your dental health so that you will not get cavities. But, now scientists and the medical health field have given you at least one more reason to make sure that you pay attention to your dental hygiene. Poor dental health can lead to gum disease which in turn can lead to a greater risk of heart attacks and stroke. If you are avoiding the dentist out of fear, lack of time or cost, you should try to find a way to get into the dentist so that you can keep your teeth and your dental health for many years to come.

Gingivitis is the early stages of gum disease. The symptoms can include red, swollen and possibly bleeding gums as well as bad breath. It is very easily treated and can be reversed if it is caught early. Your dentist can give you tips on how to treat gingivitis and restore you to good dental health.

Periodontitis is the late stages of gum disease. It causes the gums to pull away from the teeth, the gum line recedes, the teeth or dentures become loose, and the teeth may even fall out.

Here are some factors which can lead to poor dental health and gum disease:

Diabetes
Smoking
Pregnancy
Taking birth control pills
Poor dental hygiene
Loose fillings
Crooked teeth

You can avoid getting gum disease by doing all of those things that you learned in elementary school to keep your teeth healthy. You should brush your teeth at least twice daily, floss regularly, and visit the dentist for a check up and cleaning at least once a year. If you have any problems with your teeth or gums you need to visit your dentist as soon as possible.

If your oral health has not been a priority before now, you need to make it one today.