Why Periodontal Disease Is Dangerous to Overall Health
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a condition that affects many
people globally. It can cause discomfort, bad breath, and tooth
damage. In addition to impacting your oral health, periodontal
disease can actually put the rest of your body in danger. Studies
have shown
that your oral health can affect the health
of your heart, your respiratory system, and even your brain.
Why is periodontal disease dangerous to overall health?
Periodontal disease is often associated with bacterial infections and inflammation. Bacteria from diseased gums travel from the mouth to other parts of the body through swallowing and breathing, and via the bloodstream. When this happens, it can worsen the progression of conditions and diseases in the rest of the body.
What conditions can be affected by periodontal disease?
Medical studies have shown us that periodontal disease can impact an array of systems throughout the body if left untreated. The following are among the conditions that we know can be affected by gum disease:
Heart disease
Having periodontal disease puts you at an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease, like stroke and coronary heart disease. Diseased gums set off an immune response of inflammation that scientists believe can affect the heart and its associated systems. In addition to being a potential risk factor for cardiovascular disease, periodontal disease can also advance existing heart disease. Inflammation and bacteria from the gums can narrow arteries and cause other cardiovascular problems.
Diabetes
It is known that people who have diabetes are more likely to develop periodontal disease. However, this association goes both ways. Having periodontal disease can make you more likely to develop diabetes, as it can complicate blood sugar management. There is good news–studies have shown that treating gum disease measurably improves one’s ability to control their blood sugar levels.
Cancer
Having severe gum disease has been associated with a significantly increased risk of developing oral cancer, cancer of the esophagus, and gastric cancer. The link between the two diseases is clear, although scientists do not yet understand the exact mechanism that connects them.
Respiratory disease
Bacteria from periodontal disease is breathed into the lungs. This can exacerbate conditions like pneumonia and chronic pulmonary disease. People with gum disease are more likely to develop these conditions, as well.
Rheumatoid arthritis
Like periodontal disease, rheumatoid arthritis is a relatively common inflammatory disease that affects many people. The two conditions share many similarities–inflammation in both diseases can be spurred by the same kinds of bacteria, and both diseases can damage bone and other tissues. Scientists have debated the link between rheumatoid arthritis and periodontal disease for many years, but it is suspected that periodontal disease triggers rheumatoid arthritic inflammation.
Cognitive dysfunction
Scientists have found links between
periodontal disease and cognitive function in older adults. It may
even contribute to the advancement of Alzheimer’s disease in some
patients.
Prevention and treatment of
periodontal disease
At Ellicott City Dentistry, we are committed to providing our patients with the best dental care in Maryland. Contact us at 410-465-4021 to learn how to get the best available periodontic treatment .
