Creekstone Dental

Gum Disease Dangers

Dangers of Gum Disease in Sandy, UT

When you suffer from gum disease, there are millions of infectious bacteria in your mouth with the potential to spread. Gum that bleeds as a result of infection gives these bacteria the opportunity to enter the bloodstream and travel throughout the body, creating infection in other areas. As a leading Midvale, UT dentist, Dr. Thomas Dickson can help you develop a bleeding gum cure to stop the spread of bacteria.

Effects on Oral Health

Gum disease can affect your oral health in several different ways. Mild cases can result in chronic bad breath as well as swollen and bleeding gum. A cure at this point can still reverse harmful effects and prevent permanent damage. However, when left untreated, the infection will gradually worsen and cause irreversible damage to supporting tissue and bone structures. Symptoms such as tissue detachment and gum recession will occur. In extreme cases, teeth will become loose and may even fall out.

Effects on Body Health

Patients with gum disease have more at risk than just their oral health. Tooth loss can affect the foods you eat and cause malnutrition and weight loss. It can also impact the shape of your jaw and alter your facial appearance.

While there is still much research being done to establish a definitive link between gum disease and other physical illness, some studies have found that the same bacteria that cause gum disease also lead to an increased risk of heart disease, arthritis, and pancreatic cancer among other systemic illness.

Treating Gum Disease Early On

When you have gum disease, you have a living, growing infection in your mouth. It is important to treat this infection early, before it spreads and causes severe damage. When you notice swollen or bleeding gum, a cure should be sought immediately. Contact the Midvale, UT dentist, Dr. Dickson if you suspect you are suffering from gum disease.

Dr. Thomas R. Dickson and Dr. Lyndi Jones, general dentists in Midvale, Utah, treat patients from Midvale, UT; Millcreek, UT; and Sandy, UT as well as the surrounding areas. Dr. Dickson and Dr. Jones provide advanced dental treatments including the LANAP Laser Treatment for gum disease, dental implants, All-on-4, root canals, sedation, and orthodontics. Call (801) 784-1999 to schedule your appointment or click here to request an appointment online.