Can Gum Health Contribute to other Issues with the Body?

Even though a brilliant, healthy smile is something often highly desired, most individuals tend to think about physical well-being rather than the importance of a strong oral health environment. We often take our most memorable feature for granted by neglecting at-home oral hygiene.

The fact is, oral and overall wellness is closely linked and can significantly impact one another. The state of your teeth and gums can influence harmful occurrences throughout the body when not properly cared for.

Gum Health’s Relationship with Systemic Health 

Although patient awareness about the importance of optimal oral health is on the rise, many people throughout the U.S. still experience some form of gum disease with the most common cause for developing the condition being negletive of proper oral health care. Without a proactive daily oral health regime, such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily and mouthwash use, bacteria will overpopulate, accumulating build-up on teeth and along the gums. If not addressed properly, this plaque will harden, forming into tartar which cannot be removed with routine at-home care. The calculus inflames and irritates the gum tissues in a process known as the earliest stage of periodontal disease, gingivitis.

When detected by your dental care professional early, gingivitis is reversible and further infection is preventable. However, if left to progress, gum disease will continue to worsen, developing into its more advanced stage, periodontitis. At this stage it’s possible for oral bacteria to access deep gum tissue and enter the bloodstream. The bacteria can then travel to other parts of the body, where it may wreak havoc on overall health.

Gum Disease and Cardiovascular Issues

One of the most common parts of the body that periodontal infection can hinder is the arteries. Because these toxins encourage inflammation, the arteries can also become inflamed, causing restricted flow and cardiovascular plaque to build up. This contributes greatly to increased chances of heart attack or stroke.

Diabetes and Periodontal Disease

Gum disease also influences blood sugar levels. Diabetics who also have periodontal issues tend to have a harder time managing their blood sugar levels. The problem lies in the fact that diabetes can slow down the rate in which tissue heals, meaning that it becomes harder and takes longer to recover from gum disease when you are diabetic.

Premature Birth and Oral Infection 

The toxins associated with periodontal disease can also contribute to low birth weight in infants as these harmful microbes find their way into the placenta. Enzymes similar to those produced during labor can lead to premature delivery resulting in low birth weight.

At Windcrest Cosmetic and General Dentistry, Dr. Craig Wright and his team believe that long-lasting, beautiful smiles begin with optimal oral health. to schedule your gentle yet thorough oral health examination, contact us today!