Periodontal disease, also called gum disease; is an infection of the bones and tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. This disease is caused by plaque which is left from the food eaten especially when cleaning of the teeth is not adequate. These food particles that are lodged in the teeth spaces will form the plaque caused by bacteria that resides in your mouth. Sticky plaque then forms on the teeth which, when not totally removed by proper brushing, flossing and regular dental cleanings at the dental clinic; will become inflamed and infected.
It has been found out in current research that periodontal disease is associated with other diseases that affect the entire body. The studies have shown linking periodontal disease with stroke, heart problems, pregnancy, diabetes, and stomach problems. This occurs when bacteria found in the plaque that builds up between the teeth and gums gets into the bloodstream. The bacteria then flows with the circulatory system and travel throughout the body, causing serious health problems. That is why, as soon as doctors diagnose gum disease, you should consider treatment as soon as possible.
Periodontal disease increases your chances to develop heart disease. The bad bacteria present in the mouth gets into the bloodstream when there is inflammation and mixes it with the blood clotting cells or platelets. The cell clumps and bad bacteria may form inside the walls of the blood vessels, forming clots that could cause the heart to perform abnormally and this will eventually lead to heart disease or even heart attack. Thus, keeping the gums healthy lessens the risk of acquiring heart problems. Another health complication that may arise from the side effect of periodontal disease is stroke. According to a new study, stroke linked to periodontal disease. Fatty deposits are formed in the carotid arteries where 40 percent of the bad bacteria causing the clot deposits come from the inflamed gums.
Ulcers occurring in the stomach caused by bacterial infections in the stomach lining are the same bacteria collected in your mouth when inflammation due to periodontal disease is present. If there is high bacterial count in the mouth, bacteria keep on traveling to the stomach, causing recurring infection and formation of the ulcers.
Diabetes and periodontal disease are also closely linked together. Gum inflammation makes it difficult for a person with diabetes to control his blood sugar level. You know very well that a high blood glucose makes a really good condition for bad bacteria to grow in the plaque. However, maintaining a healthy and balanced life free from diabetes, will help eradicate any gum inflammation and infection.
Pregnant women who also have gum disease are likely to give birth prematurely to babies with low birth weights. According to a research, gum inflammation that is low grade can cause the body to release inflammatory chemicals which are correlated to pre-term birth.
To prevent the occurrence of periodontal disease and the systemic diseases linked to it; it is important to maintain oral health. Brush the teeth twice daily, floss between the teeth, eat a healthy diet, avoid excessive smoking, visit your dentist regularly, and obtain professional cleanings at least twice a year.
