THE MOUTH BODY CONNECTION (Oral systemic health)
Recent research has shown that heart disease, cancer, diabetes, pregnancy and breathing problems are complicated by infection in the mouth. As a member of your health care team, we will check for the following risks to your overall health to determine your Healthy Mouth Baseline.
What is the mouth-body connection?
Our mouth is the gateway to the rest of the body. Research shows that pathogens and toxins can sneak trough the body defensive mechanism so good oral hygiene is important to maintain a healthy balance. Periodontists have long understood the mouth-body connection between periodontal disease and chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis — and now science confirms it.
Periodontal disease, often called gum disease, occurs when disease-causing bacteria create inflammation in your gums and infection below your gum line. Infections and bacteria from the mouth will get into your bloodstream via ulcerations in your gums and can spread from your mouth to your body, potentially leading to significant health issues.
You can counter this effect with excellent oral hygiene and proper periodontal treatment at Mancini Periodontics and Implantology Specialists to stop gum disease before it has a chance to affect the rest of your body.
Mouth-body connection to diabetes
If you have diabetes, you are more likely to develop gum disease. When your blood sugar isn’t under control, you also have a higher risk of developing gum disease more frequently, and your condition may be more severe than someone whose diabetes is under control. When a person with diabetes gets the proper gum treatment, it can reduce their overall blood sugar levels and make them healthier!
Mouth-body connection to heart disease
If the bacteria in the mouth get into the bloodstream, it can increase your risk for heart disease and stroke. In fact, oral bacteria have been found in arterial plaques! By getting the proper periodontal treatment, it may decrease your risk for future cardiovascular disease.
Mouth-body connection to pregnancy
Having gum disease during pregnancy may expose your growing baby to a variety of risks and possible complications. Pregnancy causes many hormonal changes that increase your likelihood of developing gingivitis or gum inflammation. These oral problems are linked to:
Preeclampsia (high blood pressure)
Low birth weights
Premature birth
Fortunately, good oral hygiene and periodontal treatment at Ueno Center Dental Specialists may cut your risk of these complications by half.
Mouth-body connection to respiratory disorders
Bacteria in your mouth and throat can be drawn into your lower respiratory tract, potentially causing infection or pneumonia, or worsening existing lung conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Gum disease may also have a role in whether you contract bronchitis and emphysema.
Mouth-body connection to osteoporosis
Gum disease also leads to bone loss. Studies show that women with periodontal bacteria are more likely to have bone loss in their mouths and jaws, potentially leading to tooth loss. Research also found that post-menopausal women with osteoporosis are 86% more likely to develop periodontal disease, likely due to estrogen deficiency.
To promote your lasting mouth-body health, make sure to visit Mancini Periodontics and Implantology for routine cleanings and advanced care, as needed. Call the office today or request your visit online.
