The Dangers of Gum Disease Affect the Whole Body
December 30, 2015
Gum disease is linked to a number of embarrassing cosmetic problems such as discolored teeth, bad breath and other issues that are likely to send self-conscious sufferers running to their local cosmetic dentist in Wayne, NJ. However, the health issues associated with advanced gum disease are more advanced and far reaching than you might think. These are some of the health issues that may be associated with poor oral health.
Diabetes
There is a strong connection between diabetes and periodontal disease. Most evidence seems to suggest that it is diabetes that contributes to periodontal disease and not the other way around. However, once both are place, periodontal disease can make it more difficult to control blood sugar and maintain overall health.
Heart Disease
Gum disease is also strongly linked to heart attacks and poor circulatory health. However, in this case, researchers generally believe that it is the periodontal disease that comes first. Bacteria in the mouth can easily enter the bloodstream through sick gums and contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries.
Dementia
Periodontal disease also seems to have a connection to early-onset dementia. This is likely caused by the physical closeness of the brain to the mouth and teeth. Some of the nerves that connect to the cranium are also directly connected to the jaw, which means that bacteria from sick gums can easily find their way to the brain and cause damage.
Fertility Issues
Fertility issues mostly affect women with periodontal disease, attacking them in two distinct ways. Firstly, women with poor oral health take longer on average to get pregnant than those with healthy gums. Additionally, they are more likely to miscarry once they are pregnant than women with healthy mouths and gums.
Don’t let your oral health go untreated. Contact Dr. Lawrence Breiterman to find out about your options for stopping periodontal disease in its tracks.