Can gum disease kill you? Discover the surprising connection between gum disease and overall health.

Gum disease isn't just about swollen gums or bad breath; it can go much deeper, affecting your entire body. You may be asking, can gum disease kill you? Surprisingly, yes. Advanced gum disease, if left untreated, can have severe health consequences, including an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and respiratory issues. These connections show the significant impact of gum disease on your overall health.

Your oral health and wellbeing are closely intertwined with the health of your body. By ignoring gum disease, you could be putting your life at risk, not just your smile.

To learn more about how to protect your overall health by caring for your gums, keep reading and discover the key steps to maintaining a healthy mouth and body.

When you think about gum disease, you probably focus on its effects on your mouth. But what if we told you it goes beyond that?

Gum disease can wreak havoc on your entire body, with connections to heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues. The mouth truly is the gateway to your overall health, and ignoring it could have dire consequences.

Gum Disease and Heart Health

Gum disease doesn't just stop at your gums. The bacteria from infected gums can enter your bloodstream, traveling to your heart and increasing the risk of heart disease. Studies have shown that people with periodontitis (a severe form of gum disease) are more likely to suffer from heart attacks and strokes. This shows the impact of gum disease on your heart and overall health.

• Bacteria travel through the bloodstream
• Can cause inflammation in the arteries
• Increases risk of heart disease and stroke

Gum Disease and Diabetes

The connection between gum disease and diabetes is a two-way street. If you have gum disease, you are at a higher risk of developing diabetes. Similarly, if you already have diabetes, it can make gum disease worse. This creates a dangerous cycle that can lead to serious health problems beyond the mouth.



• Gum disease can increase blood sugar levels
• Uncontrolled diabetes makes gum disease harder to treat
• Both conditions worsen each other

As you can see, dental health and overall health are deeply connected. Preventing gum disease doesn't just protect your mouth; it safeguards your entire body.

Recognizing the early signs of gum disease is crucial for maintaining your oral health and wellbeing. Often, the initial symptoms can be subtle, but addressing them early can prevent more severe issues. If you notice these signs, you should act quickly to avoid serious complications.

Key Symptoms of Gum Disease

• Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
• Bad breath that lingers
• Gum recession where gums pull away from teeth

Why Early Detection Matters

Addressing these signs early can help prevent further damage. For more advanced cases of gum disease, SoHo Dental Group offers LANAP laser therapy, an innovative and minimally invasive treatment that targets infected gum tissue with precision and promotes faster healing. This advanced technology ensures a more comfortable and effective solution for patients facing severe gum disease.

Preventing gum disease involves a combination of good habits and professional care. Keeping your gums healthy is essential for your oral health and wellbeing, and it starts with these practical steps.

Regular brushing is fundamental. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to effectively remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums. This daily routine helps prevent the buildup that can lead to gum disease.

Daily flossing is also crucial. Floss every day to clean between your teeth and below the gumline, areas that a toothbrush can't reach. Flossing removes food particles and plaque, reducing the risk of gum disease.

Professional cleanings are necessary for maintaining optimal oral health. Regular visits to your dentist or periodontist for professional cleanings and check-ups help remove tartar and detect issues early. These appointments are key for preventing gum disease and maintaining overall dental health.

The LANAP Procedure

The process begins with the dentist using a specialized dental laser to target and remove infected gum tissue. This laser selectively removes only the diseased tissue while leaving healthy tissue unharmed, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the gum line.

Once the infected tissue is removed, the dentist then proceeds to clean the root surfaces of the teeth. This cleaning is thorough to ensure that all plaque and tartar buildup is eradicated, which is essential for preventing future bacterial infections.

The precision of the laser also helps in creating a conducive environment for healing by forming a stable clot in the treated area. This clot acts as a natural barrier to protect the area from further infection and facilitates the regeneration of healthy gum tissue.

The LANAP procedure typically requires one to two sessions. Each lasts about an hour or two, depending on the extent of the periodontal disease.

Patients can expect the LANAP procedure to be relatively quick, usually completed in one or two sessions, depending on the severity of the gum disease. Each session lasts about one to two hours, and the procedure is performed under local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort.



Lifestyle Choices for Optimal Oral Health

Healthy lifestyle choices support your oral health and wellbeing. Eating a balanced diet that includes vitamins and minerals strengthens your gums and teeth. Foods rich in nutrients help maintain gum health and prevent disease.

Avoiding tobacco products is essential. Tobacco use increases the risk of gum disease and other oral health problems. Quitting or avoiding tobacco can significantly improve your oral health and overall wellbeing.

Managing stress is also important. High stress levels can weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off gum infections. By managing stress effectively, you can better support your gum health.

Regular dental health and overall health checks are crucial. They allow for early detection of potential issues and timely treatment. Regular check-ups help prevent the progression of gum disease and ensure long-term health.

Can Gum Disease Kill You?

While it might sound alarming, the answer is yes, it can have severe consequences. Untreated gum disease can lead to serious systemic conditions, such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

The bacteria from gum infections can enter the bloodstream and contribute to inflammation throughout the body. This systemic inflammation increases the risk of developing life-threatening conditions and can worsen existing health issues.



The impact of gum disease extends beyond your mouth, affecting your entire body. Addressing gum disease early and managing it effectively is crucial to prevent these severe complications and protect your overall health.

Take Action Today

Paying attention to gum disease symptoms like bleeding gums and bad breath can make a significant difference in preventing serious health issues. By preventing gum disease, you not only protect your oral health but also improve your overall wellbeing. Can gum disease kill you? If left untreated, it can lead to severe systemic conditions. Don't let it progress; take charge of your health now.



Contact Smile Savers Dentistry today and take advantage of our $50 off your first visit. Let our expert team help you protect your smile and your health before it's too late.