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.
Research shows that periodontal disease is associated with other diseases that might affect the entire body. According to studies, periodontal disease is correlated with stroke, heart problem and pregnancy, diabetes and stomach problems. Typically, gum disease occurs when bacteria found in the plaque builds up in-between the teeth and gums and gets into the bloodstream. The bad bacteria will flow in the circulatory system and travels throughout the body, causing serious health issues. That is why, if you have gum disease, you should consult your doctor to immediatelydiagnose gum disease.
Periodontal disease increases the chances of an individual to develop heart disease. The bacteria present in the mouth go to the bloodstream when there is inflammation and mixes with the blood clotting cells or platelets. The cell clumps and bacteria may form inside the walls of the blood vessels, forming clots that can cause the heart to perform abnormally or altogether stop it from normal functioning. The clots will eventually lead to heart disease or even heart attack. Keeping the gums healthy reduces the risk of acquiring heart problems. Stroke has also been linked to periodontal disease as shown from a new study. Fatty deposits are formed in the carotid arteries where 40% of the bacteria causing the clot deposits come from gum inflammation.
The gum inflammation that is due to periodontal disease could cause ulcers to some people. Ulcers occurring in the stomach lining caused by bacterial infections are the same bacteria collected in your mouth. Now, if there is high bacterial count in the mouth, bad bacteria keep on traveling to the stomach, causing recurring infection and formation of the ulcers.
Diabetes and periodontal disease are also closely related. Gum inflammation makes it hard for a diabetic person to control his blood sugar. High blood glucose makes a good condition for bacteria to grow in the plaque. The enhancement of health, free from diabetes; will help eliminate any gum inflammation.
Pregnant women who havegum disease are likely to give birth prematurely to infants with low birth weights. Research shows that gum inflammation that is low grade can cause the body to release inflammatory chemicals which are linked to pre-term birth.
To prevent the occurrence of periodontal disease and the systemic diseases linked to it; it is important to maintainoral 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.
