Inflammation has been likened to fire in that it is a smoldering process that has the potential to injure tissues, joints, and blood vessels. “Acute inflammation” helps the body deal with injury and disease by introducing white blood cells that surround the injured or diseased area and fight off invaders that might cause infection. This explains why cuts and bruises lead to redness, heat, and swelling around tissues and joints. On the other hand, when “chronic inflammation” sets in, white blood cells flood the problem and end up attacking healthy tissues and organs nearby. With this in mind, it is important to treat the inflammation associated with gum disease because it can lead to tooth loss and problems elsewhere.
Visit your dentist and hygienist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings. These visits are very important — even if you’re one of those people who rarely gets a cavity — because the dentist also checks for the early signs of gum disease, oral cancer, and other potentially serious problems that can only be detected during the dental visit. To schedule an exam, please call West Brookfield Dental at 508-867-2777. Our office is located at 9 West Main St., West Brookfield.
P.S. Inflammation can travel all over the body, which is why chronic gum disease can contribute to heart disease and other health issues.
