Gum Disease 08/01/2025

How Gum Disease Can Kill

This might be a shocking title, but it’s important not to underestimate the importance of good oral hygiene. Deaths as a direct result of gum disease are rare, but having gum disease can put you at higher risk of other conditions that could be deadly.

For example, those with gum disease are more likely to develop chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and Alzheimer’s disease. Pregnancy complications are also more likely when the mother has gum disease. This could include premature birth and low birth weight.

To understand why this is the case, we have to first understand that your oral health is linked to your wider health. It’s also important to note that correlation doesn’t not always indicate causation. This simply means that there may be a link between the two, but one doesn’t necessarily cause the other.

For example, there may be higher instances of heart disease in those with gum disease because the presence of gum disease indicates poor diet or difficulties in accessing healthcare. It doesn’t necessarily mean that gum disease causes heart disease, just that the two are often seen in similar populations.

How does oral health impact wider health

How does oral health impact wider health?

One factor that is worth paying attention to is the risk of gum disease leading to inflammation throughout the body. Inflammation puts stress on the body and places it in a defence mode, which can lead to other health problems.

The plaque on your teeth can also lead to respiratory problems as it provides a breeding ground for bacteria. When this bacteria is inhaled, it could lead to infections in the lungs.

Plaque that builds up on your teeth can also be swallowed and find its way into your blood vessels, which can lead to inflammation throughout your body.

In short, there are many reasons that your oral health can be impacted by your oral health. Which is why it is so essential to care for your oral health at every stage of your life.

How can you prevent gum disease

How can you prevent gum disease?

If you’re interested in taking better care of your oral health, there are simple changes you can make that will have a huge impact. First, you need to start brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. An electric toothbrush can help to make this easier, even for those with mobility problems.

Next, you need to think about adding flossing into your daily routine. Flossing daily will help you to dislodge any trapped food and bacteria that might be caught between your teeth. It’s the only way to ensure that the entire tooth surface is cleaned.

Next, you should also think about visiting the hygienist on a regular basis. Once a year is usually enough for most people, but those with active gum disease might benefit from visits every three to six months.

And finally, you should also make sure you are visiting the dentist regularly. Most people need to visit the dentist once or twice a year. This will help your dentist to spot early signs of wider health issues and take prompt action.

Can gum disease lead to death

Can gum disease lead to death?

Severe oral infections can be deadly if left untreated. You should never ignore dental problems or pain, as this can indicate that there is something far more severe happening. You also shouldn’t wait for pain to occur before visiting the dentist.

Visit the dentist immediately if you notice any periodontitis symptoms such as bleeding or red and inflamed gums. Your dentist can help you to get your gum disease under control while also monitoring for other conditions such as oral cancer.

Book an appointment with our team today to learn more about how we can help you.

Map of Benfleet Dental Centre

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Benfleet Dental Centre

8 Benfleet Road, Benfleet. SS7 1QB

Opening times

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:30
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 14:00*
*By appointment only