Have you put your routine dental checkup on the bottom of your priority list because you’re not convinced it’s necessary? Recent studies have unveiled the connection between oral health problems like gum disease and serious medical conditions, reaffirming the importance of getting routine preventive care from your dentist. Without regular cleanings and checkups, your risk of developing gum disease drastically increases, which can jeopardize your overall wellbeing. Read on to learn what medical conditions can easily develop due to gum disease.
Alzheimer’s
A study published in a 2019 issue of Science Advances found the bacteria Porphyromonas gingivalis, which is known for causing gum disease, present in Alzheimer’s patients’ brains. A common initial symptom of gum disease caused by this bacteria is inflammation, and researchers found that Alzheimer’s disease patients also exhibited neuroinflammation, which could be a sign that the toxins the cause gum disease were able to travel through their bloodstream to their brain. While there’s still more research needed to establish a direct correlation between these two issues, this study highlighted an important connection. Without routine preventive care, your risk of developing gum disease, and in turn Alzheimer’s disease, is significantly higher.
Heart Disease
In 2014, researchers set out to find the connection between gum disease and heart health. After examining a large group of participants who suffered from both conditions, they found that the people who received adequate care for their oral health problem paid 10 to 40 percent less on cardiovascular care costs than people who didn’t treat their gum disease.
Another set of authors that reviewed several articles connecting gum disease and heart issues found that people who have gum disease are at a 20 percent higher risk of developing heart disease. This means that they also have a higher chance of having strokes and heart attacks as well. Scientists believe that this is a result of P. gingivalis travelling through the bloodstream and into the cardiovascular system, causing main valves to become inflamed and blocked.
Respiratory Infections
Several studies have been conducted linking periodontal disease to an increased risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which is an inflammatory lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe. They’ve also linked the same bacteria that causes gum disease to pneumonia, bronchitis, and emphysema development. There are also several overlying factors that can increase your risk of both conditions, such as smoking.
According to a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one out of two people in the nation suffers from gum disease. That means that one out of every two people also have an increased risk of developing all of the medical conditions listed above. Without the proper preventive dental care, your overall wellbeing is at risk. Your dentist is often your first line of defense against common oral issues like gum disease, which is why it’s so important to move your regular dental checkups and cleanings to the top of your priority list.
About the Author
Dr. Wael Kassem is passionate about providing each of his patients with high-quality dental care that improves their overall wellbeing. He has received advanced intensive training and is constantly pursuing additional education courses to stay up-to-date with the latest research and treatments in the dental world. He’s also an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. For questions or to schedule a checkup and cleaning, visit iSmile Dental Arts’ website or call 856-818-9998.
