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Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the soft tissues that support your teeth. If allowed to progress, it can lead to serious decay of the underlying bone structure and, eventually, tooth loss. But more and more recent studies have shown that the hazards of gum disease don't stop there. The Far-Reaching Effects of Gum Disease Stroke. A recent study of fatty deposits lodged in the carotid arteries of stroke sufferers shows that up to 40% of the bacteria that cause the fatty deposits comes from the mouth if the gums are inflamed. Heart Disease. Bacteria from the mouth can get into the bloodstream when gums are inflamed. This bacteria can get mixed up with blood-clotting cells called platelets. These clumps of cells and bacteria can lodge inside the blood vessel walls, causing heart-stopping clots to form. These clots lead to heart disease. Keeping gums healthy can reduce your risk of a heart attack. Ulcers (stomach). The bacteria that collect in your mouth when gum disease is present are the same bacteria that cause gastric ulcers. If the bacterial count in the mouth is high, these bacteria can be constantly travelling to the stomach, re-infecting and causing a return of ulcers. Diabetes (pancreas). The presence of any gum inflammation can make it much more difficult for a diabetic to control their blood sugar. Elimination of gum inflammation can directly improve diabetic control. Pre-term Births. Women with gum disease are 7 to 8 times more likely to give birth prematurely to low birth weight babies. Researchers believe that the low grade gum inflammation causes the body to release inflammatory chemicals which are linked to pre-term birth. Periodontal Disease Areas of Special Concern Bacteria can build up between the tooth and gum and enter into the bloodstream whenever your gums bleed. This bacteria can travel throughout the body and contribute to serious health problems in other areas, including stroke, heart attack, diabetes and more. Some factors increase the risk of developing gum disease, including tobacco use, some medications (including steroids, oral contraceptives, cancer therapy drugs and more), ill-fitting bridges, defective fillings and more. Good oral hygiene is essential, however, in preventing periodontal disease. This includes brushing, cleaning between the teeth (flossing), eating a balanced diet - and regularly scheduled dental visits. Not only are professional cleanings essential to maintain the healthiest teeth and gums, but it is possible to have periodontal disease and have no warning signs. With regular dental checkups and periodontal exams, you can rest assured that your smile is at its best and healthiest. Don't wait until you start losing teeth to learn the importance of good dental hygiene. A few simple habits now can avert disaster later.
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