From as far back as the days of Hippocrates, there has been a correlation between oral disease and overall general diseases. Over the past century, even more interest and focus has been given to this subject.
Gum Disease and Its Causes:
Periodontal disease is the more advanced form of gum disease; it involves the breakdown of the bony structure that supports the to
oth and is progressive in nature.
Some symptoms are bleeding, red puffy and tender gums, sensitivity to hot or cold, receding gums, loose teeth, and bad breath. It starts with bacteria build up invading gum tissues. These bacteria can dramatically be increased by millions over a short time. If ignored, plaque, then tartar, and eventually a pocket forms.
The pocket is a result of the separation of gum tissue from the existing tooth. As the bacteria sits in the pocket, it eats away at the gum and bone tissue of the tooth, resulting in tooth loss. Eventually, the bacterium makes its way to the blood stream, emitting toxins or poisons. The more severe it becomes, the greater the potentially damaging effects are on the general health. For example, cardiovascular disease comes about because of the heart and blood circulatory systems continuous exposure to harmful bacteria. Hence negative effects on the immune system, heart and blood vessels depend largely on the extent, type and duration of the gum disease.
During a dental hygiene visit, measurements are taken to establish the health of the gums and bone tissue. Healthy measurements range from 1-3. The deeper the pocket reading, the higher the number and indication of a more severe condition.
Possible Contributors:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Stress
- Side effects to some medications
- Dry mouth
- Tobacco use
- Substance abuse
Associated Conditions:
- Severe stress to the immune system
- Lower resistance to other infections
- Increased severity of diabetes
- Contributes to respiratory disease
- Contributes to low preterm birth weight
- Interferes with proper digestion/leads to digestive disorder
- Reduced life expectancy
- Increased risk of heart attack as much as 25%
- Increased risk of stroke by 10%
- Increased blood pressure
- Obesity
- Pancreatic cancer
In conclusion, gum disease plays a role in many serious and life threatening health conditions that not only damage health and destroy the quality of life but can even shorten your life.
