Body And Mouth
Body And Mouth Connection
Tinton Falls, NJ
Over the last few decades, there have been many studies on the mouth-body connection. Research has concluded that there is a strong link between oral health problems like periodontal disease and other illnesses that affect our bodily health. Simply put, taking good care of your teeth and gums can benefit your mouth and your body as a whole and possibly even save your life!
At Premier Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we believe that patient education is the foundation for good oral health. In this case, it can also help you maintain better bodily health too! The following information details the relationship between periodontal (gum) disease and systemic illnesses.
Heart Disease And Periodontal Disease
If left untreated, a periodontal infection can have serious consequences and can also affect other parts of your body, such as the heart. Studies have shown that periodontal disease can trigger inflammation throughout the body, especially in the circulatory system. The bacteria that causes periodontal disease can enter the bloodstream, resulting in inflammation and arterial plaque formation.
Periodontal disease can exacerbate existing heart conditions. People with untreated periodontal disease are at much higher risk of infected heart valves heart attacks and strokes.
Diabetes And Periodontal Disease
The connection between periodontal disease and diabetes is extremely strong. Periodontal disease has been shown to worsen diabetes and people with diabetes have a much stronger tendency of developing periodontal disease as well.
Periodontal disease is an infection caused by our immune system’s response to the harmful bacteria found in plaque. Unfortunately, the toxins our bodies create also produce an infection that can spread to the gum tissue, connective ligaments, and underlying bone. Without treatment, these tissues will begin to deteriorate.
People with diabetes have a harder time fighting off this infection due to a compromised immune system. Diabetes strains the immune system, which can lead to periodontal tissues that do not heal as well. Research also suggests that bacteria plaque can induce a greater inflammatory response, making it more difficult for people with diabetes to control their blood sugar.
Cancer And Periodontal Disease
Research has shown that people with untreated periodontal infections are much more likely to get lung cancer, colorectal cancer, kidney cancer, pancreatic cancer, and cancers of the blood.
Respiratory Disease And Periodontal Disease
Research has shown that pulmonary disease may be the result of bacteria that first develops in the oral cavity. This bacteria can be aspirated into the lungs and cause respiratory illnesses like pneumonia.
Alzheimer’s Disease And Periodontal Disease
There have been numerous studies linking untreated periodontal disease to Alzheimer’s disease.
Schedule Your Appointment Today!
Periodontal disease does not usually cause any discomfort and is very often undetected. Early treatment is the key to not only the health of your mouth but to your overall health as well. Studies have shown that people who retain their teeth throughout their life live considerably longer than those that do not. Call (732)-747-1766 to schedule your appointment with us today!