PERIODONTAL DISEASE AND SYSTEMIC HEALTH

PERIODONTAL DISEASE AND SYSTEMIC HEALTH

Research has shown that periodontal disease is associated with several other diseases. For a long time it was thought that bacteria was the factor that linked periodontal disease to other disease in the body; however, more recent research demonstrates that inflammation may be responsible for the association. Therefore, treating inflammation may not only help manage periodontal diseases but may also help with the management of other chronic inflammatory conditions.

DIABETES AND PERIODONTAL DISEASE

Diabetic patients are more likely to develop periodontal disease, which in turn can increase blood sugar and diabetic complications.

People with diabetes are more likely to have periodontal disease than people without diabetes, probably because people with diabetes are more susceptible to contracting infections. In fact, periodontal disease is often considered a complication of diabetes. Those people who don’t have their diabetes under control are especially at risk.

Research has suggested that the relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease goes both ways – periodontal disease may make it more difficult for people who have diabetes to control their blood sugar.

Severe periodontal disease can increase blood sugar, contributing to increased periods of time when the body functions with a high blood sugar. This puts people with diabetes at increased risk for diabetic complications.

GUM DISEASE AND HEART DISEASE

HEART DISEASE

DiagramSeveral studies have shown that periodontal disease is associated with heart disease. While a cause-and-effect relationship has not yet been proven, research has indicated that periodontal disease increases the risk of heart disease.

Scientists believe that inflammation caused by periodontal disease may be responsible for the association.

Periodontal disease can also exacerbate existing heart conditions. Patients at risk for infective endocarditis may require antibiotics prior to dental procedures. Your periodontist and cardiologist will be able to determine if your heart condition requires use of antibiotics prior to dental procedures.

STROKE

Additional studies have pointed to a relationship between periodontal disease and stroke. In one study that looked at the causal relationship of oral infection as a risk factor for stroke, people diagnosed with acute cerebrovascular ischemia were found more likely to have an oral infection when compared to those in the control group.

GUM DISEASE AND OTHER SYSTEMIC DISEASES

OSTEOPOROSIS

Researchers have suggested that a link between osteoporosis and bone loss in the jaw. Studies suggest that osteoporosis may lead to tooth loss because the density of the bone that supports the teeth may be decreased, which means the teeth no longer have a solid foundation.

RESPIRATORY DISEASE

Research has found that bacteria that grow in the oral cavity can be aspirated into the lungs to cause respiratory diseases such as pneumonia, especially in people with periodontal disease.

CANCER

Researchers found that men with gum disease were 49% more likely to develop kidney cancer, 54% more likely to develop pancreatic cancer, and 30% more likely to develop blood cancers.

For more information please visit Perio.org

United Dentists
We know that every great smile – your smile – is the sign that we’ve done our job to provide the highest level of care in the industry.
Social Networks

Visit United Dentists on these social links and connect with us. Make sure to follow our accounts for regular updates.

Book

Copyright 2024 by United Dentists. All rights reserved.

NEW LOCATION ANNOUNCEMENT: Please click banner for more information.

Dear Patients of United Dentists:

Please be advised that we have moved locations.  Don’t worry we are still located in the Gateway complexes.  You can find us at Gateway Complex 3 on the ground floor next to Wild Orange Spa.

Our New Address is 

101-2031 McCallum Rd
Abbotsford, BC
V2S 3N5

We look forward to treating you in our brand new dental clinic.  Where we will continue to provide excellent dental care for of our patients.

Sincerely,

United Dentists

Dr. Jay Son & Dr. Mike Hira