Gum Health Drastically Affects Tooth Health

The human body is an organism in which all of its parts—from head to toe—are linked. What influences the well-being of one can highly influence the well-being of another other. So it’s only natural that there’s a significant connection between gum health and the cause of endodontic issues. 

The office of Foundation Endodontics treats a wide spectrum of dental issues. Keeping your mouth healthy is as important to us as it is to you. We give all of our patients as much time and attention as they need.

Gums that are in poor health frequently become diseased, which, in turn, contributes to the development of problems that need attention from an endodontist. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is caused by an accumulation of plaque and tartar along the gumline. The plaque and tartar instigate inflammation and infection of the gums. As the disease progresses, the gums will likely recede and eventually expose the roots of a tooth to bacteria. This contamination increases the risk of tooth decay. If the decay spreads deep enough, it will reach the tooth’s pulp and provoke an infection. 

Ignored gum disease can also spark the formation of periodontal pockets. These compartments are perfect havens for bacteria to flourish and invade the pulp. 

The connection between gum health and endodontic issues is a two-way street: A pulp’s infection can spread to and contaminate the root canal system and continue into the surrounding tissues. The result? Gum inflammation and damage around the affected tooth that trigger swelling, inflammation and physical discomfort. 

An untreated endodontic infection can turn into an abscess that will damage the surrounding gum tissues and potentially lead to the loss of the tooth. Root canal therapy is usually used to save an infected or abscessed tooth. Proper post-treatment care and attending follow-up appointments with the endodontist are essential to ensure that the gums heal properly and that the risk of complications is minimized.

Fight gum and endodontic problems with dedicated brushing, water flossing and string flossing habits. The office of Foundation Endodontics is passionate about treating all aspects of your endodontic health. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for an appointment.