The human body is a beautifully complex compilation of systems; however, a seemingly tiny problem in one area can throw off something in another.
At first, your mouth might seem to have a minute impact on the rest of your body, other than getting food into your digestive system. However, if you contract gum disease, also called periodontal disease, the inflammatory bacteria responsible for the infection can enter your bloodstream and affect other areas and systems of your body. Below are just some of the ways that this oral issue can cause massive problems for the entire body.
Cardiovascular Disease
Your heart and vascular system rely on a clear path throughout the body to run smoothly. Inflammation in arteries and veins can put excess stress on your heart, raise your blood pressure, and even increase your chances of experiencing a heart attack or stroke. In fact, a Harvard study shows that those with gum disease are significantly more likely to develop heart disease than those with healthy mouths.
Dementia
Like for the heart, inflammation in the brain leads to bad consequences. In fact, research has found evidence of the very same bacteria as infected gums in the brains of those who also have dementia and Alzheimer’s, leading scientists to believe that gum disease exacerbates or accelerates these progressive brain illnesses.
Kidney Disease
Your kidneys perform an important but often overlooked function: they filter waste from your blood. However, inflammation interferes with this role. In fact, a recent study found that those with 25 percent gum inflammation suffered from a 10 percent decrease in kidney function.
Diabetes
Periodontal disease and diabetes have a mutual impact on each other. If you struggle to control your blood sugar levels, you are at a higher risk of getting a gum infection. On the other hand, if you have a chronic gum infection, you are more likely to have diabetes.
Certain Cancers
When it comes to oral cancer, it is easy to blame it on oral problems, but recent research seems to suggest that severe and chronic periodontal disease is also connected to and may cause other forms of cancer. Pancreatic cancer, specifically, is more common among those who have this infection.
Erectile Dysfunction and Pregnancy Issues
In order to get and keep an erection, blood flow is a must. However, inflammation, such as the kind caused by gum disease, can mess with sexual performance.
It is not uncommon for a pregnant individual to be more susceptible to inflamed gums during gestation. However, if left unchecked, gingivitis may interfere with pregnancy, leading to pre-term birth and other complications.
In the end, although your mouth may make up just a small part of your body, issues with oral health can have a major influence on the rest of it. As a result, it’s imperative that you take care of your teeth and gums through regular checkups and cleanings with your dentist, daily maintenance at home, and resolving any infections as quickly as possible.
About the Practice
At Beach Dental, Dr. Alexis Gersten and Dr. Jason Parli strongly encourage patients to visit at least every six months, more frequently for those with gum disease. They prefer to prevent this infection, but they have the extensive training necessary to treat it. In addition, they offer Invisalign, dental implants, and many other treatments that benefit patients coming from Westhampton, East Moriches, East Quogue, Manorville, and Westhampton Beach. Contact us online or call 631-325-0731 if you would like to schedule an appointment.