Ben and Gary Show - Episode 51

Can My Gums Kill Me?

Ben goes solo in this episode as Gary's off to California for continuing education followed by some family R&R.

We got this interesting question. Can I die from gum disease? The short answer? Yes and no. No, not directly. Probably yes indirectly.

The link between oral health and overall health, the oral systemic link, is one of the hottest topics in medicine. As it turns out, the bacteria found in the mouth that causes gum disease is the same type of bacteria found in the plaques on artery walls. 

This suggests a link between heart disease and gum disease. Heart disease can lead to heart attacks and strokes. Well, we don't want that!

Maybe the link is a good enough reason to pay closer attention to our dental health. Gum disease is progressive. It causes bone loss which ultimately results in tooth loss.

Missing teeth allow remaining teeth to shift, misaligning bite. Remaining teeth carry an extra force load. Remaining teeth are vulnerable to chipping and fracture.

Prevention? Brush your teeth after every meal. Visit your dentist for regular checkups. Follow his advice and recommendations. He is trained to spot problems you cannot see.

Our goal is to help people keep their teeth for life. We hope that is your goal too.