Let’s review the connection between your oral health and these diseases.
Did you know that your oral health affects your overall health? If uncontrolled, bacteria in the mouth may multiply and enter the bloodstream, affecting other body parts. In particular, gum disease has been linked to diabetes, heart disease, and even respiratory ailments. Keeping your mouth healthy is critical for your overall health and well-being. Let’s review the connection between your oral health and these diseases.
Key Points About the Connection Between Gum Disease and Other Diseases
Periodontal disease (gum disease) has been associated with numerous diseases and conditions, including:
Heart Disease
Gum disease is described as inflammation of the gum tissue, leading to inflammation in the heart. Unfortunately, this inflammation may harden arteries, making it difficult for blood to flow to the heart. Bacteria from gum disease can enter a person’s bloodstream and cause infections in the heart valves. Strokes can be triggered if the bacteria spreads to the brain and causes artery blockages.
If you suspect you might have gum disease, please call the dentists at Annapolis Dental Care at 410-267-0766 for a gum treatment.
Diabetes
Gum disease makes it challenging to control blood sugar levels because it affects insulin sensitivity. Treating the oral disease can help lower blood sugar over time. In addition, the saliva inside your mouth protects against dryness, bacteria, and tooth decay. Your body tends to create less saliva when you have diabetes. Diabetes may also increase the amount of glucose in your saliva, resulting in more bacterial growth and plaque build-up.
Respiratory Disease
People can inhale the bacteria from gum disease into their lungs and cause pneumonia. The tiny droplets containing the bacteria can multiply quickly, restricting normal breathing, particularly in the lower respiratory tract. This may lead to infection or worsening of existing lung issues, such as asthma.
Bacteria from infected gum tissue may result in several breathing issues due to a suppressed immune system. In addition, underlying respiratory disease is linked to a poor immune system, increasing the chances of infections, such as gum disease, in oral health.
Transform Your Smile with Annapolis Dental Care
Whether it’s a regular check-up you need or a tooth extracted, your dentist in Annapolis is here to serve! Annapolis Dental Care has the expertise and compassion to work with you on improving your oral health. Your comfort and health are our top priorities, and so we go above and beyond to make our patients happy and give them the highest quality care. Please give us a call at 410-267-0766 or visit us online. For more oral health tips for you and your family, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube! We are always looking for new patients, so if you live in Arnold, Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, MD, come on down!