Why You Should Never Ignore a Tooth or Gum Infection

Life is getting busier and busier with each passing day. And with that hectic schedule often comes compromises being made in an attempt to save time. We get it. But one area that should never be compromised is your health – and that includes your oral health. If you’re wondering why this is such a big deal, we think you’ll find the following information very insightful.

What Delaying Your Semi-Annual Professional Tooth Cleaning Could Mean to You

There is a lot of over-the-counter toothpaste and mouthwashes that promise maximum cleaning for maximum dental health. While it’s true that products have improved their ability to help prevent cavities and other dental concerns over those that were available in the recent past, there is still not one product available for retail purchase that can replace the deep cleaning that you’ll receive from a dentist. And without this intensive deep cleaning, your mouth is more susceptible to chronic periodontal conditions such as a gingival or gum abscess, a periodontal abscess, a periapical abscess, and more.

But don’t just take our word for it. Read what the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends.

What the ADA Reports is an Eye-Opener About Dental Health

In a news release, the ADA reported that chronic periodontitis affects almost 50 percent of the U.S. population who are 30 years old or older. They go on to report that “it is a major cause of tooth loss in adults.” Some of you reading this might think, “I don’t care if I lose a tooth, especially if it’s in a place in my mouth that no one can see.” Unfortunately, that thinking is flawed.

When a person loses a tooth and does not have it replaced with a dental implant, a dental bridge, or another type of prosthetic tooth like a partial denture, there are a few things that can happen.

First, their remaining teeth will shift out of place from their original positions in an attempt to fill the gap in their smile. This is not a “may happen” act of nature. It is a “will happen” act of nature as your mouth works to restore its functionality.

And when teeth shift out of place, the second event will happen. More food will become trapped between the increasing margins created by the shifting teeth, and this will create two events of its own.

First, trapped food is uncomfortable. Sure, it can be removed with the use of dental floss. But imagine being at an important event and not being able to rush off to take care of the discomfort in a timely manner?

And when that food stays trapped between your teeth, gum disease and periodontal concerns are not far behind.

What to Expect from Untreated Tooth and Gum Infections

Although it may sound extreme, it’s true that untreated tooth and gum infections can spread to other parts of your body, cause even further complications in your health, and could even result in patient fatality.

How does this happen? Because infections travel through the bloodstream, it means they can land in any parts of your body, such as in your brain, your heart, or your other organs.
The undeniable fact is that any infection can spread if it’s not treated. So why take the risk of a tooth abscess being fatal? Instead of postponing dental care at the time that it’s needed, a simple call to a dentist near you could save your life!

There’s No Need to Fear Periodontal Treatment

In the recent past, the only way to treat oral infections was through invasive treatment such as cutting and drilling. However, there have been some amazing advancements made in modern dentistry to make the experience less stressful for patients.

One option is the use of laser debridement, which allows dental professionals to target the exact area requiring treatment.

This means more precise, painless, and quick treatment for any problem area that requires intervention from potential infection.

Take Action Today!

Rather than even having to concern yourself with the spread of infections or treatment options such as laser therapy, why not take time to practice the gold standard in preventative dentistry by adhering to a twice a year professional dental exam and tooth cleaning?

With many dental practices, including Impression Dental Care, now offering convenient early evening appointment times, you really can’t use the excuse that you’re too busy!