Gum Health

Gum Disease is the Primary Reason for
Tooth Loss
Most people seem to think that the main reason for tooth loss is decay. But it is periodontal disease (infected gums). Often times, it is not treated until it has reached advanced stages, as signs may not be present. Symptoms that do occur may be bleeding gums while brushing or flossing and loose teeth. If previously you have been told you need gum surgery, let us assess the state of your gums, as it is possible we can reverse the infection through nonsurgical methods.

Other Serious Health Problems May Result from
Gum Disease
It has been estimated by the American Dental Association that most Americans have periodontal disease at some level. Dentists regard this problem as a health epidemic. From the findings of recent medical research, it has been proven there is a link between gum disease and stroke, diabetes, and heart disease. The American Academy of Periodontology confirms that gum infections add to the development of serious health afflictions with the heart, diabetes, stroke, or respiratory ailments. The bacteria from the gums travels throughout the body in the bloodstream, affecting and/or worsening life-threatening diseases.

Good News in Gum Disease Treatment
If gum disease is treated before it reaches an advanced stage, there are nonsurgical treatments that will stop its continuation and allow the gum tissue to heal. Together with improved hygiene efforts by the patient, nonsurgical methods will destroy the bacteria and help in preventing its re-occurrence. It is important to seek treatment at the first signs of this problem, as once the infection is in advanced stages, the treatment will be surgery. Most dental insurance provides coverage for both nonsurgical and surgical procedures.

The Importance of Replacing a Missing Tooth
Most people think that missing a tooth has no effect on your overall health or appearance. But even if only one tooth is missing, it can cause other teeth to shift. This often has an effect on your ability to obtain nutrients from your food, as your chewing is not as it should be. Often, people will start to eat softer foods that are not too nutritious and result in weight gain. Maybe that one missing tooth may not bother you in how you look, but it can eventually create a sunken look to your face and you will look older than your age. Speech may become slurred and affect your job performance.

We have a solution to alleviate all these problems – dental implants for one or more missing teeth. They look so natural you will not even know they are not your own teeth.

Millcreek Family Dental 
Dr. Anthony J. Baird, DDS
1455 South 500 West, Suite D
Bountiful, UT 84010
Phone: (801) 292-4009
Website: www.DrBaird.com