Many people visit dentists in Waldwick, NJ, like those at A Perfect Smile Dental Arts, for cleanings or check-ups without realizing how much their gums matter to their overall well-being. Gum disease starts quietly but can spread trouble far beyond the mouth. At A Perfect Smile Dental Arts, the team sees this connection every day and helps local patients stay ahead of it.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, begins when plaque builds up along the gumline. If not removed, it hardens into tartar and causes inflammation. At first, gums may look red or bleed a little when brushing. This early stage is gingivitis, and it's reversible with better care. Left alone, though, it turns into periodontitis. Gums pull away from teeth, pockets form, and bone can start to break down. Bacteria from these pockets don't stay put—they can enter the bloodstream.
Research from the American Dental Association and the National Institutes of Health shows strong ties between gum disease and serious health issues. Chronic inflammation in the gums raises levels of harmful proteins in the blood. These same proteins play a role in heart disease by making arteries narrower and stickier. Studies find that people with periodontitis have up to a 19% higher chance of cardiovascular problems, even after accounting for smoking or diet. The link goes both ways with diabetes, too. High blood sugar makes gums more prone to infection, and infected gums make it harder to control blood sugar.
Gum Disease and Health Risks in Bergen County
In Bergen County, these risks hit close to home. New Jersey has seen diabetes rates climb, affecting more adults here than in many other areas. Heart disease remains a top concern statewide, claiming lives through strokes and attacks that often trace back to inflammation. Local residents face the same daily stresses, diets, and habits that feed both gum problems and bigger health threats.
That's why early periodontal care matters so much. At A Perfect Smile Dental Arts, Dr. Richard Hong and the team focus on gentle, effective treatments tailored to each person. They use advanced laser technology alongside non-surgical methods like scaling and root planing. The laser targets bacteria deep in pockets without cuts or stitches. It reduces swelling fast and helps gums heal strongly. Many patients notice less discomfort and quicker recovery compared to older approaches. This modern care not only saves teeth but also lowers the body's overall inflammation load.
Preventing Gum Disease: What You Can Do
Poor oral hygiene, smoking, family history, or conditions like diabetes all raise the odds of gum disease. Regular visits catch issues early, before they spread. Brushing twice a day, flossing, and eating well help at home, but professional cleanings make the real difference.
Take Control of Your Gum Health Today By Contacting A Perfect Smile Dental Arts
Residents deserve dentists in Waldwick, NJ, who understand these full-body connections and offer proven, comfortable solutions. The team at A Perfect Smile Dental Arts is ready to guide you toward healthier gums and a healthier life. Call today to schedule your periodontal check-up and start protecting what matters most.
