You've probably heard the old
song about your bones, right? The toe bone is linked to the foot bone, which is
linked to the heel bone, and so on. While this refers to your skeletal system,
your whole body is equally interrelated. In dental terminology,
this means that your oral health might have an impact on your general health.
While a cavity may not influence your endocrine system, chronic gum disease
can have far-reaching consequences for your health. Take a look at how your
dental health might effect your overall health and what you can do about it
right now.
Health Areas of Concern
When it comes to your dental health,
your teeth, tongue, and entire mouth are crucial. When we take a step back and
examine your oral structure, however, your gums, also known as your gingiva,
have the most impact on your general health. Gum disease, in
particular, can have a variety of negative consequences for your health. Below,
we go into those areas of concern in further depth:
Heart disease
The bacteria from inflammation of the gum disease can enter
your bloodstream and travel to the arteries in the heart leading to:
Atherosclerosis
When plaque develops on and thickens your arteries' inner walls, your blood
flow is decreased through the body, leading to an increased risk of heart
attack or stroke.
Endocarditis
The inner lining of the heart (endocardium)
can also become infected and inflamed.
Dementia
Gingivitis bacteria can enter your brain through nerve
channels or the bloodstream, possibly leading to Alzheimer's disease.
Respiratory infections
Inhaling bacteria
from infected teeth and gums over a long period could lead to infections in the
lungs, as well as pneumonia.
Diabetic complications
Periodontal disease
can make your blood sugar difficult to control and make your diabetes worse.
People with diabetes are also prone to periodontal disease. It's a vicious
cycle.
Rheumatoid arthritis
The more tooth loss due to gum disease,
the higher the risk of rheumatoid
arthritis.
