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Recent research has confirmed what dentists have long observed: there is a strong link between periodontal disease and chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis.
Periodontal disease involves inflammation of the gums, the presence of harmful bacteria, and infection below the gum line. These infections can spread throughout the body, potentially contributing to a range of serious health issues. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene and addressing periodontal disease through professional treatment not only protects your gums and bone but may also help reduce your risk of developing other chronic health conditions.
Diabetes is a serious condition characterized by elevated levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Type II diabetes occurs when the body cannot properly regulate insulin, leaving excess glucose in the bloodstream. Type I diabetes occurs when the body produces little to no insulin. Diabetes affects millions of Americans and can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease and stroke.
Research shows that people with diabetes are more likely to develop periodontal disease than non-diabetics. Those with poor blood sugar control are especially prone to more frequent and severe gum disease compared to diabetics who manage their condition well.
The connection between diabetes and periodontal disease is due to several factors. Diabetes slows circulation, making it easier for bacteria to colonize, and reduces the body’s overall ability to fight infection, increasing the risk of gum infections. Moderate to severe periodontal disease can also elevate blood sugar levels, making diabetes harder to control. High glucose levels in saliva further encourage the growth of harmful bacteria that cause gum disease.
Thickened blood vessels, a common complication of diabetes, reduce the exchange of nutrients and waste in the body. This can leave harmful byproducts in the mouth, weakening gum tissue and increasing susceptibility to infection.
Smoking and tobacco use are especially harmful for diabetics. Diabetic smokers over 45 are up to 20 times more likely to develop periodontal disease than non-smokers.
Effective oral hygiene is crucial for everyone, but it is particularly important for diabetics. Daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits help prevent harmful bacteria from feeding on excess sugar and colonizing beneath the gum line, reducing the risk of periodontal disease.
Coronary heart disease occurs when fatty deposits and plaque build up on artery walls, narrowing the vessels and restricting blood flow. Reduced oxygen to the heart can cause shortness of breath, chest pain, or even a heart attack.
Studies show that individuals with periodontal disease are nearly twice as likely to develop coronary artery disease compared to those with healthy gums. Periodontal disease can also worsen existing heart conditions and increase the risk of stroke. A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is suddenly blocked, often by a clot.
The connection between periodontal disease and heart conditions is partly due to oral bacteria entering the bloodstream. Some bacteria attach to plaque in the arteries, increasing the likelihood of clot formation. Inflammation from periodontal disease raises levels of white blood cells and C-reactive protein (CRP), which inflames arteries and may contribute to heart attacks or strokes.
Coronary heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene and seeking treatment for gum disease can help reduce your risk.
Pregnancy increases hormonal changes that make women more susceptible to gum diseases like gingivitis. Periodontal disease during pregnancy has been linked to complications such as preeclampsia, premature birth, and low birth weight. Treating gum disease and practicing high standards of oral hygiene can reduce these risks by up to 50%.
Advanced periodontal disease raises prostaglandin levels, a compound that can trigger premature labor. Elevated CRP levels caused by gum disease may also increase the risk of preeclampsia. Additionally, bacteria from diseased gums can travel through the bloodstream, potentially affecting the mother’s and baby’s health.
Pregnant women should maintain diligent oral hygiene and visit a periodontist to protect both their own health and the health of their baby.
Respiratory diseases occur when harmful droplets containing bacteria are inhaled into the lungs. Oral bacteria from periodontal disease can worsen lung conditions like pneumonia, bronchitis, emphysema, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Low immunity, common in respiratory patients, allows bacteria to thrive above and below the gum line. Inflammation caused by gum disease can travel to the lungs, further impairing breathing. Coordinated care between your periodontist and physician can help manage both periodontal and respiratory conditions.
Osteoporosis, common in older adults—especially postmenopausal women—is characterized by thinning bones and decreased density. Periodontal disease can accelerate oral bone loss, increasing the risk of tooth loss. Research shows that women with osteoporosis are more likely to develop periodontal disease, and controlling gum disease can significantly reduce tooth loss over time.
Estrogen deficiency and low bone density worsen both osteoporosis and periodontitis. Inflammation from gum disease weakens the bones that support teeth, making oral health maintenance especially important for those with osteoporosis.
If you have osteoporosis, taking preventive measures against periodontal disease is essential to protect your teeth and jawbone.
