Gum Disease and Its Connection to Other Health Conditions
One of the most commonly asked questions is about the possible link between gum disease or periodontal disease and other medical conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.
Preliminary research indicates that, yes, in fact there is a connection. Further research needs to be done to determine precisely why, but the early results give us reason to take care of our mouths.
This isn’t to say that periodontal disease “causes” these conditions, but it can affect the severity of the symptoms associated with these conditions.
Osteoporosis
Gum disease if left untreated can worsen until hard and soft tissue (bone and gums) start to deteriorate. When this happens without preventative or interceptive treatment, tooth loss can result. For those who suffer from or have a family history of osteoporosis, gum disease only makes a complicated situation worse because treatment will not only have to be directed at the systemic deterioration of osteoporosis, but also of periodontal disease.
Many patients may not even be aware they have gum disease, which is why it is so important to maintain good oral hygiene, including regular dental check-ups whether or not they actually feel like something’s wrong.
Since women in their menopausal years are most prone to osteoporosis, it is important for that segment of the population to remain vigilant about their oral health.
Heart Disease & Stroke
People with periodontal disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease. Coronary artery disease is the thickening of the walls of the coronary arteries - the blood vessels that carry oxygen to the heart. This thickening happens because of plaque build up usually comprised of fatty proteins. While the exact reason for the correlation between periodontal disease and heart disease is yet to be determined, scientists theorize that oral bacteria enters the blood stream and is carried along by the fatty proteins. The body’s natural reaction to bacteria is to fight the infection with white blood cells further decreasing the space inside the artery.
Again, more research is being done to find more definitive answers.
We value and respect the experiences of all of our HERWriters, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.
Add a Comment6 Comments
Darlene,
Thank you so much for such an informative, thorough SHARE. It's funny, our vet always emphasized that our dogs' teeth need to be kept clean because of the ongoing damage that periodontal bacteria can do to the dogs' organs, but I never thought about the same being true for people. But it makes perfect sense. Another reason to be dedicated to (ugh) flossing, too. I shall rededicate my efforts. Thank you again.
August 12, 2009 - 8:27amThis Comment
You're welcome. Flossing usually gets the short end of the stick (no pun intended) when it comes to oral hygiene, but it is really quite crucial to stimulating gums and keeping them healthy. I have had a history of gum related issues including gingivitis (a mild form of periodontal disease) so I have flossed irregularly, but started again when I noticed some gum resorption which, two months later, is now much better.
I will address proper dental hygiene in another article in more detail including the importance of flossing.
August 12, 2009 - 8:38amI use a Gripit Floss Holder - www.gripit.biz - to floss regularly. These handy devices come with their own floss supply that can be advanced in seconds and refilled from local
August 14, 2009 - 8:46amdrug and grocery stores. They last a lifetime and don't clog landfills.
This is very important information on periodontal disease. One of my friends always has to take antibiotics when he goes to the dentist because he has a heart murmur. I used to think that was awfully weird, but I'm learning that infection and inflammation issues can affect the entire body. For the association between periodontal disease and chronic kidney disease, please see my article at
August 24, 2009 - 2:03pmhttp://www.empowher.com/news/herarticle/2009/08/24/gum-disease-risk-kidn...
Well, I am not surprised at all that there is a link between gum disesase and heart/kidney problems. When I was little (I am 57 now) the old people used to tell us to look after your teeth because "the inflamation will spread to heart and kidneys"). I am trying to tell that to my dentists but somehow...they don't get it. Now when I am in pain 24/7 (jaw and gums) my dentist is saying she has never seen anything like that. My teeth are clean, I wash them, I floss then, I spend a fortune on some rinsing products but it is not helping. Yes, I have osteoporosis and am on Actonel Combi, had kidney stones and operation of parathyroid gland, etc. I AM convinced that everything is related and there is some inflamation in my mouth which is going on and on. I even started suffereing from BBPV (vertigo) but nobody seems to want to look at me as a whole. No doctor wants to be bothered except just examine one thing.
December 16, 2011 - 7:05pmI have a partial denture but am not able to wear it due to the pain. When my dentist takes x ray everything seems fine, like I am imagining things. Is anyone in this world willing to help?
OF COURSE THERE IS CONNECTION BETWEEN OTHER PARTS OF THE BODY AND TEETH, YOU DON'T HAVE TO BE EXPERT TO KN OW THAT BUT DOCTORS JUST IGNORE IT!!!
Thanks for your attention and please help.
Wow never thought it is closely related.
December 17, 2011 - 2:54pm