Four Ways Gum Disease Affects Your Overall Health

For many people, gum disease doesn’t rank high on their list of healthcare priorities. However, if more people knew the facts about gum disease, this would probably change. Gum disease, in addition to causing tooth loss, has also been linked to heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, respiratory failure, and more. What’s worse is that gum disease has very few symptoms, and once it reaches an advanced stage, it can be difficult to control.

What is Gum Disease? Gum disease is a chronic infection of the gums. Bacteria and toxins caused by a buildup of dental plaque attack the soft tissues and break down the ligaments that hold teeth in place. Common symptoms of early-stage gum disease include swollen or red gums, chronic bad breath, pockets between teeth, and sensitive teeth. If left to progress, gum disease can eventually cause tooth and bone loss.

The Mouth-Body Connection Like most health issues, gum disease isn’t isolated to the spot where it occurs. The mouth serves as a portal to the rest of the body, and having a chronic infection in the mouth can lead to serious health risks. Here’s how the bacteria from gum disease can travel to other parts of the body:

1. Circulatory System – Research has found that bacteria from gum disease can actually enter the bloodstream through the gums. This can cause plaque buildup within the arteries, leading to heart disease, and creating secondary infections.
2. Immune System – The body’s natural response to gum disease is inflammation. Chronic inflammation can trigger other inflammatory diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes.
3. Respiratory System – Recent studies have shown that bacteria can actually enter your lungs through inhaled saliva vapors. Once in the lungs, oral bacteria can create pulmonary infections and respiratory problems.
4. Blood Sugar – Patients with gum disease are twice as likely to develop Type 2 diabetes. Researchers believe this is partly because gum disease elevates blood sugar levels, making them harder to control.