The Mouth Body Connection
Your mouth is connected to the rest of your body! Of course this is common sense but often we think of the health of our mouth and body separately. This type of thinking is changing as more research continues to surface highlighting the association of gum disease to other systemic problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke risk.
Heart Disease
While there are no specific studies indicating a direct cause and effect relationship of gum disease to heart disease, scientists believe that constant inflammation from gum disease is responsible for the increased association of heart disease.
Diabetes
The relationship of gum disease and diabetes is a two way street. People with diabetes are more likely to have gum disease due to a decrease in the body’s ability to fight infection. The science also indicates that gum disease may make regulating blood sugar more difficult in diabetics. For these reasons, it is especially important for diabetics to regulate their blood sugar and maintain excellent oral hygiene.
Facts
- Over 64 million of Americans over age 30 have periodontal disease
- The most common cause of tooth loss
- Men have approximately 20% higher rate of periodontal disease compared to women
- 35 million Americans have NO teeth- mainly due to periodontal disease
- Healthy Gums DO NOT BLEED!
Take Away
Periodontal disease is far more complicated than what we have discussed here. For instance genetics, smoking, and hormone levels all play varying roles in the disease. While there are multiple early indications, some things to look for are bleeding, swollen gums, and loose teeth. If the disease progression is evaluated early enough we can often provide the necessary treatment to halt the disease process.
Prevention is KEY!
Streitz Family Dental