The Negative Effects of Gum Disease on Overall Health By on July 08, 2014

Gum Disease & Overall Health

Many patients take great care to keep the teeth and gums healthy and clean because it helps them to maintain an attractive smile. However, good oral hygiene is far more important than aesthetics alone. When bacteria are able to multiply around the teeth and gums, there are serious consequences to a patient’s oral health.

What begins as mild decay can quickly progress to more serious oral health problems such as cavities, tooth damage, root canal infections, tooth loss, and gum disease. What’s more, oral health problems, and gum disease in particular, have been shown to have effects on a patient’s overall health as well. Dr. Clint Newman understands the connection between oral health and overall physical health, which is why, as a cosmetic dentist, Dr. Newman creates comprehensive treatment plans that improve a patient’s overall health, and lessen the negative effects of gum disease on overall health.

The Effects of Gum Disease

Gum disease is an oral health problem that develops when large amounts of bacteria are present in the mouth. This bacteria develops into plaque and tartar, which builds up around the teeth and gums, eventually working its way beneath the gum line. As a result, the gums may become tender and swollen, and they are likely to begin to pull away from the teeth. If left untreated, gum disease will continue to deteriorate the health of the gums and will eventually lead to tooth loss. While these are some of the devastating effects that gum disease has on a patient’s oral health, there are studies that show that gum disease also has negative effects on a patient’s overall physical health. In recent studies, it has been shown that patients who suffer from gum disease are at an increased risk of experiencing the following conditions:

Heart disease
Diabetes
Respiratory disease
Osteoporosis
Certain cancers

While the bacteria present in the mouth of patients with gum disease was originally thought to be the link between periodontal disease and overall health, recent research suggests that the inflammation of the gums may be the association between gum disease and other diseases. Therefore, by treating gum disease and reducing inflammation, a patient will not only improve his or her oral health, but will reduce the risk of other physical health problems as well.

Treating Gum Disease

Gum disease is a progressive condition, so without treatment, the potential effects of gum disease are likely to worsen. Fortunately, there are many effective treatments for all stages of gum disease. Dr. Newman can provide patients with a deep cleaning of the gums that includes removing bacteria, plaque, and tartar from beneath the gum line. In severe cases, surgical treatment may be recommended. In addition to cleaning the gums, Dr. Newman offers a wide range of restorative dentistry treatments that can address any tooth decay, damage, or loss that has resulted from plaque and tartar buildup. By improving a patient’s oral health, Dr. Newman helps patients care for their overall physical health.

Contact Us

Dr. Clint Newman believes in providing superior dental care that enhances the aesthetics of the smile while improving oral health, which ultimately affects a patient’s overall health. If you are interested in learning more about the services that we provide, contact us at your earliest convenience. One of our team members will get back to you shortly.