Gum Disease Health Effects

Gum Disease Health Effects

In Australia and the rest of the world, periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss. When gum inflammation advances, it can weaken a tooth’s supporting structure, causing it to eventually fall out. After decades of studies, however, it’s now understood that untreated periodontal disease can be detrimental to the overall health of a patient. Not only can gum disease health effects increase the risk of pregnancy complications, it can also increase the risk for heart disease, diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s.

Fortunately, even advanced gum disease can be properly treated with the right tools. Dr. Vikas Bhasin uses some of the most advanced treatment methods available to combat gum disease, including LANAP. For more information, please call 
(02) 4655-3705 or email reception@camdendental.com.au to schedule an appointment.

The Relationship Between Gum Disease and Heart Disease

Over the last few decades, research has shown that those with gum disease are two to three times more likely to have a heart attack, stroke, or other serious cardiovascular event. Evidence of a direct link continues to build but isn’t yet certain. While shared risk factors like smoking or an unhealthy diet may explain the association, other research is beginning to point to the chronic inflammation caused by gum disease as an explanation.

Acute inflammation over the short-term creates an outpouring of immune cells that attack irritants and microbial invaders which fosters healing. Over a long period of time, however, chronic inflammation has been shown to be a key contributor to many health problems, including atherosclerosis. It’s been shown that treating gum disease can reduce your risk of atherosclerosis similar to reducing your “bad” cholesterol by 30% or reducing your BMI by 8. It’s also the equivalent of turning back the clock four years!
Gum disease health effects on the whole body
Gum disease health effects

The Link Between Alzheimer's Disease and Gum Disease

Much like heart disease, a wealth of research has shown that those with gum disease are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease. However, a direct link between the two has yet to be sufficiently proven. One current hypothesis is pointing to gum disease bacteria which has been found in the brain, the thinking being that those particular bacteria may have found a way to enter the bloodstream. A recent study conducted out of the University of Bergan, Norway, found a DNA-based connection between gum disease and Alzheimer’s, keying into a group of enzymes that have, in previously studies, been shown to be produced by gum disease causing bacteria. These enzymes have the capability to destroy nerve cells in the brain.

Protecting Your Mouth and Body

Gum disease health effects are no longer a minor inconvenience but a serious concern. Left untreated, it can not only cause tooth loss, but can damage your body as well. Although a direct connection between gum disease and complications like heart disease and Alzheimer’s has yet to be proven, other studies have noted that treating gum disease can actually lower your overall health costs by as much as 40 percent.

Dr. Vikas Bhasin is serious about protecting your body as much as your mouth. If you would like to learn more about the importance of preventing gum disease, and about the treatments available to you, please call (02) 4655-3705 or email reception@camdendental.com.au today for an appointment.
Share by: