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About Healthy Living
Most people don't think dental health can affect your overall health. It has been shown that periodontal disease (most commonly known as gum disease) has a connection to chronic conditions such as diabetes, osteoporosis, and heart disease.
What is Periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease (gum disease) is when bacteria in your gums create inflammation and infection deep in the gum tissue. The bacteria and infection can spread through the bloodstream to the rest of the body. You can correct this by having excellent oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly for proper treatment.
Periodontal disease connection to chronic conditions
People with diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease. When blood sugar levels are not under control, there is a higher risk of developing gum disease and may be more severe than someone whose diabetes is under control. When someone with diabetes receives proper gum treatment, it can make their blood sugar levels lower.
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The bacteria in the gums can also get into the bloodstream and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Oral bacteria has been found in arterial plaques. With the proper gum treatment, the bacteria can decrease therefore decrease chances of heart disease.
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Gum disease leads to bone loss. Studies have shown that women with periodontal disease are more likely to have bone loss in their mouth and jaws. It has also been found that post menopausal women with osteoporosis are more likely to develop periodontal disease.