The eyes may be a window to the soul, but your smile is a window to your health. Your gum health can be a sign of greater, overall health issues may be at play.

Gum Disease and Cardiovascular Disease

Recent studies have shown that uncontrolled periodontal disease may increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Both periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease are chronic inflammatory conditions. Thus, researchers believe that inflammatory mediators may be the link between the two. However, research is still needed to determine the exact pathway of the relationship between the two inflammatory conditions.

Periodontal Disease and Diabetes

Research suggests a strong link between diabetes and gum disease. Diabetic patients have shown to more readily develop periodontal disease, which in turn can destabilize blood sugar control and increase diabetic complications. This is because those with diabetes are more susceptible to contracting infections.

The relationship between the two conditions goes both ways: Just as diabetes can increase a person’s chance of developing periodontal disease, research also suggests that efficient and intense periodontal therapy will positively affect blood sugar (HbA1C) control.

Gum Health and Heart Disease

Research has shown that periodontal disease is associated with heart disease. Although the cause-and-effect relationship is not yet clear, researchers have shown that periodontal disease increases the risk of heart disease. It is believed that inflammation is the connection between the two conditions.

Gum Disease and Stroke

Recent research suggests that gum disease carries a higher risk of stroke than diabetes, a major known risk factor. In fact, those with active periodontal disease are twice as likely to suffer a non-fatal stroke.

Periodontal Disease and Osteoporosis

Research suggests that there is a link between osteoporosis and jawbone. Osteoporosis may lead to tooth loss because the bone’s density that supports the teeth may decrease, which means the teeth no longer have a solid foundation. Additionally, estrogen deficiency that accompanies menopause may also speed up the progression of oral bone loss.

Periodontal Disease and Respiratory Disease

Periodontitis is a bacterial infection of the gums. Recent data found that bacteria growing in the mouth can be aspirated into the lungs, causing respiratory diseases such as pneumonia. This mostly seen in people with severely progressed periodontal disease.

Periodontal Disease and Cancer

Men with periodontal disease are 49% more likely to develop kidney cancer, 54% more likely to develop pancreatic cancer, and 30% more likely to create various forms of blood cancers, as shown by research.

Are You Looking for a Periodontist in Jupiter?

When it comes to your oral health, you simply can’t wait for treatment. That’s because your oral health affects your overall health. So, contact our experienced periodontist in Jupiter to schedule an appointment today!