The oral-systemic connection is a strong link between your oral health and the overall wellness of your body. Studies continually show us that active infections like periodontal (gum) disease increase your risk of more severe medical issues. Even if you treat the other condition without addressing your dental concerns, you may not fully recover.
Gum Disease and Diabetes
Are you a diabetic that’s having trouble stabilizing your blood glucose levels? If you have active gum disease, that could be why. Studies show that when periodontal infections go untreated in diabetics, they tend not to respond as desired to their insulin therapy.
Periodontal Infections and Premature Labor
Preeclampsia, pre-term labor, low-birth weight infants, and stillbirths are all linked to oral infections like gum disease. If you’re pregnant or trying to get pregnant, take steps to ensure your mouth is healthy, too!
Women aren’t the only ones whose reproductive health is affected by gum disease. Oral infections can also make men more likely to experience erectile dysfunction. Both partners may also find that it takes them longer to conceive if one or both of them has active periodontitis.
Heart Attack, Stroke, High Blood Pressure
Cardiovascular diseases are another condition that’s closely tied to gum infections. Since dental plaque can spread directly into your bloodstream via infected gums, it’s possible for the bacteria to lodge itself within your heart and blood vessels, triggering a stroke or heart attack.
Respiratory Diseases
From pneumonia to COVID-19, gum disease elevates your risk of respiratory illness due to the chances of bacteria entering your respiratory tract. If you or someone you know is at risk for lung disease, don’t skip out on your dental checkups!
Putting Your Health First
Your smile and health go hand in hand. Call Encino Dental Studio today to reserve an appointment!
