A member asked:

Is it possible that a severe case of gingivitis can put a infection in the blood my daughter has gingivitis, is taken maybe antibiotics once..in one year she went from a size 15 down to a 2....she is nothing but bones now..all blood tests came back normal

4 doctors weighed in across 3 answers
Dr. Steven Hart answered

Specializes in Cosmetic Dentistry

Gingivitis : Gingivitis or inflammation of the gums is an early stage of periodontal disease. It tends to be localized to around the necks of the teeth (gumline) with the gums swollen, red and tender. A comprehensive dental and periodontal examination is necessary to determine the severity. Radiographs could give additional information as to levels of bone loss as well as possible foci (i.e., origins) of infection. If blood tests were run and came back normal it is unlikely that there is a systemic infection of the magnitude that would lead to such severe weight loss. However, this is domain of the treating physician(s) and my suggestion is to continue consulting with your physicians.

Answered 10/3/2016

5.3k views

Thank

Yes: Research has shown that patients enter a significant amount of bacteria into the blood stream when they chew or clench their teeth if they have gingival or periodontal concerns. I would suggest however that i doubt if this is where her weight loss stems from.I would suggest a complete physical with your physician and also discuss food intake and possible regurgitation with her.

Answered 10/4/2016

5.3k views

Thank
Dr. Gary Sandler answered

Specializes in Dentistry

Medical consult: I would not attribute her physical issues to any dental problems. Infections would tend to show up in routine blood tests. I think it would be appropriate to follow up with some medical consults. If you can't get the answers that you seek from your current physician, consider getting some referrals to other medical specialists. There has to be a reason, it's only a matter of discovering it.

Answered 10/24/2017

5.3k views

Thank

Related Questions