The Health Impact of Gum Disease

Did you know that having periodontal (gum) disease could significantly impact your overall health?

Gum disease isn’t something that’s isolated to your mouth. We know from extensive research that the bacteria in those diseased tissues can spread directly into your bloodstream. In turn, your immune system is triggered and there’s an increased inflammatory response throughout your body. Bacteria can even become lodged directly within your blood vessels.

Untreated gum disease is directly tied to an increased severity or occurrence in:

• Diabetes — Having gum disease will throw off your blood glucose levels, making it difficult to get your diabetes under control. The two conditions should be treated together to see an improvement in either.
• Heart disease and stroke — Increased inflammation will raise your blood pressure, while bacteria also become wedged within arterial walls or your heart. People with gum disease are at a much higher risk of having a heart attack. Bleeding, detached gums allow bacteria to spread directly from your mouth to the rest of the body.
• Infertility and reproductive problems — Both men and women can experience unwanted reproductive health problems if their gum infection is severe. Women are more prone to preeclampsia and stillbirth, while men are at a higher risk of experiencing erectile dysfunction. Jointly, couples where one partner has gum disease tend to take longer to conceive than couples who both have healthy mouths.
• Pneumonia — Oral infections increase the chances of developing respiratory diseases and pneumonia. It’s likely because the bacteria can simply be inhaled directly into the lungs.

Do you have swollen, red, or bleeding gums? Request an exam at Dunwoody Family & Cosmetic Dentistry to rule out periodontal disease.