Lets find out where the weakest link is between poor health and gum disease and what this means for you.
Heart disease
Researchers have found that long-term periodontitis, an infection of the gums, can lead to coronary heart disease or atherogenesis, a condition in which plaque forms in your arteries. People with gum disease are nearly twice as likely to suffer from heart disease.
Stroke
If you have some of your teeth missing, or have lost huge amounts of bone and tissue around your teeth, you may be at increased risk of stroke. There is evidence that severe periodontitis is also a risk for developing atherosclerotic plaques, which can cause strokes and heart attacks.
Diabetes
Periodontal disease somehow affects the body’s metabolism and can contribute to the development of pre-diabetes, a condition in which blood glucose levels are higher than normal. Those of you who have type 2 diabetes and get treatment for periodontitis may experience reduced levels of oxidative stress, a condition in which antioxidant levels (substances that protect your body’s cells) are lower than normal.
Pregnancy complications
Research by the American Academy of Periodontology has shown that periodontal disease can increase the risk of delivering a pre-term baby with a low birth weight. If you’re pregnant and have gum disease, make sure that you seek regular dental care from a periodontist. Studies have found that periodontal therapy can reduce the risk of going into labor preterm or delivering a baby with a low birth weight. Pregnant women who are also diabetic are more prone to gum inflammation and more severe gum disease.
Kidney disease
Poor oral health also seems to be linked to chronic kidney disease, which affects blood pressure and bone health, and can lead to kidney failure and heart disease. Periodontologists have found that toothless adults may be more likely to develop chronic kidney disease.
Mental health problems
Stress and anxiety can impact your health. But research has now shown a strong relationship between gum disease and many mental health problems, including stress, depression, distress, anxiety, and loneliness. All of these conditions can cause your body to produce more of the hormone cortisol which, in increased amounts, can aid in the progression of periodontal disease.
If you have problems with your health and want to find our more about the link between poor health and gum disease make sure you visit us regularly or talk to one of our team for advice.
