But it only affects the mouth, right?

Wrong! Research has established associations between oral bacteria (from gum disease) and many systemic diseases. Unhealthy conditions in your mouth create a breeding ground for other, more serious infections. Diseases that have been linked to oral bacterial/gum disease include:

• Type 2 Diabetes
• Heart Disease
• Respiratory Disease
• Blood Clots and Strokes
• Preterm and Low Birth Weight Babies
• Alzheimer’s Disease

The mouth may be a portal for bacteria to spread to the rest of your body.

Pathogenic bacteria in gum disease form colonies that cause localized inflammation and damage in your gum tissue. Those bacteria may enter the blood stream through small ulcers in your gum tissue. Maintaining a healthy smile is not just an issue of vanity. It is very important to your overall health, and waiting until you have pain to see your dentist can lead to serious complications.

Treatment Options for Gum Disease

Non Surgical Treatments		Surgical Treatment
Scaling & Root Planning (Deep Cleaning) Medicated Tray Delivery Devices		Periodontal Surgery Laser Gum Treatment