Gum Disease and Systemic Health

There has been a lot of research and studies been done, which shows a direct relation between gum disease and other systemic disease in the body. Therefore, treating inflammation may not only help periodontal diseases but may also help with the other systemic chronic inflammatory conditions.

DIABETES:

Patients with diabetes are more prone to having periodontal disease and more susceptible to contracting infections, which in turn can increase blood sugar and complications.

Research has suggested that the relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease goes both ways - periodontal disease may make it more difficult for people who have diabetes to control their blood sugar contributing to increased periods of time when the body functions with a high blood sugar. This puts people with diabetes at increased risk for diabetic complications.

Also Read: Teens and Teeth

PANCREATIC CANCER:

Porphyromonas gingivalis is harmful oral bacteria found in gum disease that damages the soft tissue and bone around the teeth.

Researchers have found that those with high levels of Porphyromonas gingivalis had a 59% greater risk of developing pancreatic cancer.

A study published in the British Journal of Cancer showing that Treponema denticola, which is the bacterium that causes periodontitis, may also be responsible for the development of some types of cancer, as the pancreatic cancer and periodontal disease share the same enzyme Treponema denticola chymotrypsin-like proteinase (Td-CTLP).

HEART DISEASE AND STROKE:

Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream during the normal chewing and brushing and lead to the formation of cardiovascular disease.

According to many researches, people with gum disease are twice more likely to have heart disease.

Body naturally responds to infection by inflammation. When the oral bacteria travel through the body it triggers a similar response, resulting in formation of arterial plaque. Bacteria found in gum disease have been found in the fatty deposits in the arteries of patients with atherosclerosis leading to heart attack or stroke.

PREMATURE BIRTH:

Several researchers have found that women with periodontal/ gum disease are at a higher risk of delivering premature babies or with low-birth weight. Both medical and dental communities agree that maintaining healthy gums is a important part of healthy pregnancy.

Having explained the link between periodontal disease and systemic health, not to mention the tooth/ teeth loss associated, it is important to accept effective treatment.

We at Hills Dental Group, can help you achieve the healthy gums, and a healthy smile. Call us at 408-725-1536 or email us at info@hillsdentalgroup.com to schedule an appointment and we will be happy to get you on track to happy, healthy life.

References:
Dentistry IQ
American academy of Periodontology
Harvard health publishing - Harvard Medical school
British Journal of Cancer