While, of course, gum disease can take a toll on your oral health, it can also take a toll on your overall health. Read on to learn about three ways in which gum disease can affect the overall health of your whole body.
1. Cardiovascular Disease
Medical studies have revealed that people who suffer from periodontal disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from heart disease of all types. While researchers are still not sure exactly why gum disease contributes to the development of heart disease, it is believed that when gums are infected with bacteria, this bacteria enters the bloodstream and then throughout the entire body, settling in the arteries.
As oral bacteria flow through arteries, it triggers an inflammatory response that can cause plaque to build up on artery walls. This plaque can cause arteries to narrow and increase the chances of a heart attack or stroke.
Chunks of this plaque can also break free from artery walls and cause blood clots in the blood vessels. If a clot develops in a blood vessel that feeds the heart, it causes a heart attack. And if a clot develops in a blood vessel that feeds the brain, it causes a stroke.
2. Kidney Disease or Cirrhosis
Although further studies are needed to confirm researcher's suspicions, studies have shown that people who suffer from kidney disease are more likely to suffer from gum disease. This has led to researchers suspecting that gum Disease may contribute to the development of kidney disease.
However, if you already suffer from kidney disease, then you likely take many steps to stay healthy despite the challenges you face living with your disease. If you have been neglecting your oral health, then it is important to know that studies have shown that chronic kidney disease sufferers who also suffer from periodontal disease are more likely to die then those with chronic kidney disease who have healthy gums.
Other studies have revealed that people suffering from cirrhosis are more likely to die if they also suffer from gum disease. It is believed that the gum bacteria that enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation in the entire body also increase liver inflammation in those living with cirrhosis, leading to the disease advancing much more quickly.
3. Cancer
Many studies have shown links between periodontal disease and the development of many types of cancer. One study revealed that men who suffered from periodontal disease were 21% more likely to develop cancer of any type than men who did not suffer from periodontal disease. In addition, women who suffer from gum disease have been shown to be 14% more likely to develop cancer than women with healthy gums.
Specific types of cancer gum disease make women more prone to developing include esophageal cancer and breast cancer, especially in women who suffer from periodontal disease and smoke cigarettes. Men who suffer from gum disease are 35% more likely to develop blood cancer. Periodontal disease increases the risk of the development of pancreatic cancer in both genders.
If you have not visited a dentist recently and are experiencing one or more of the most common signs of periodontal diseases, such as red swollen gums, bleeding gums, receding gums, or loose teeth, then it is important to visit your dentist for a diagnosis and eliminate the disease.
Contact the office of
Dr. Teri Hernandez DDS to schedule an appointment for a dental exam to protect your oral and overall health.
