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Gum Disease & Health
What Is the connection between oral health and overall health?
If left untreated, the symptoms of gum disease can advance in severity to a point where bone structures and tissues surrounding your teeth degrade. This decay can lead to tooth loss and pain. Gum disease symptoms are only half the battle, as these effects can be felt far beyond just the jaw or mouth. Research has shown that gum disease is linked to several conditions that can affect your overall health.
Some of these conditions include diabetes, osteoporosis, and distinct kinds of heart disease. This sort of link is also known as a mouth to body connection. This connection can work out a few ways. Studies have presented evidence that other bodily areas are affected by gum disease and these conditions can even exacerbate gum disease development.
Because of this, it’s crucial to keep your dentist in the loop about other symptoms you may be experiencing. By providing information of exterior issues, we are able to treat problems with your gums and teeth. Further, we are given the opportunity to identify diseases that may affect other parts of your body just from our oral observations. Gum disease has been linked to the following conditions.
Osteoporosis
Normal humans experience slower bone growth over time due to age. This ageing process also leads to a decrease in bone density. Osteoporosis affects all the bones in the body, even the jaw.
Jaw bones that suffer from decreased density are unable to properly support the teeth like healthy jaws can. This leaves individuals suffering from osteoporosis and gum disease at a higher risk for tooth loss. Schedule an appointment today and talk with a doctor about a bone density test if you think you’re at risk.
Stroke and Heart Disease
Research has indicated that those who suffer from gum disease experience a higher risk for coronary artery or heart disease. Right now, the link between gum and heart disease is not too clear, however, there are many indications that oral bacteria travels to the arteries via the bloodstream. Strokes are related back to gum disease in other similar studies. Many of these found oral infections at higher levels in groups with stroke survivors in comparison to the control group.
Diabetes
Individuals with diabetes must take extra care with their gums and teeth because diabetes and gum disease adversely affect each other. The immune system experiences increased adversity in the face of infection due to diabetes. This leaves the body more susceptible to infections like gum disease. Advanced gum infections have been noted to increase blood sugar levels which in turn, complicates diabetes further.
Pregnancy
Increased levels of hormones have been linked to heighten oral health risks because the gums are more sensitive during pregnancy. A few studies have presented evidence that low birth-weight and even premature labor are linked to the presence of gum disease. It is recommended to discuss your oral health with your doctor before planning a pregnancy.
Respiratory Disease
Bacteria in the mouth, and bacteria in the mouths of those with gum disease, are capable of being inhaled into your lungs. This can lead to respiratory issues like pneumonia.
One of the main causes of respiratory diseases is smoking. Smoking is also known as a gum disease risk factor. Starting the journey towards quitting can help improve the body’s health in many ways. Call today and make an appointment with your dentist if you’re seeking to kick the habit.
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