If you or someone you know has periodontal disease they are in danger of increasing their likelihood of developing chronic inflammatory conditions. The bacteria that surround your teeth can do great damage to your oral health resulting in loose teeth, bad breath, and tooth decay. Studies have found that such bacteria contribute to gum disease by entering the blood stream and spreading throughout the body contributing to chronic inflammatory conditions including:
Stroke- Gum disease and stroke have similar risk factors. Also, infected gums can result in reduced blood volume to the brain compounding the risk of a stroke.
Heart Disease- Coronary artery disease and heart disease are also impacted by bacteria. Periodontal disease and heart disease are both chronic inflammatory diseases. Observations between heart disease and heart conditions have revealed that periodontal disease contributes to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and acute coronary syndrome.
Respiratory Infections-There is a larger amount of pneumonia cases in individuals that have periodontal disease when compared to those that don’t have gum diseases. It has been found that plaque-causing bacteria travel to the lungs and can result in pneumonia, and these patients have lowered immune systems increasing vulnerability to illness.
These are a few of the ways that rampant gum disease can impact your health. Other known diseases that are also related to periodontal disease include cancer and rheumatoid arthritis. This is why it is important for you to maintain good oral hygiene. Contact Smiles Unlimited Dentistry, P.C., today to schedule your next dental check-up.