Periodontitis is a severe gum infection that damages the soft tissue and destroys the bone that supports your teeth. This condition can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.

However, what you may not realize is that periodontitis can also put your life at risk in different ways.

What is Periodontitis?

Periodontitis, also known as gum disease, is a serious bacterial infection that affects the gums and the surrounding tissues of your teeth.

The infection stimulates an inflammatory response in the body, which can cause significant damage to the teeth and gums.

The beginning stage of periodontitis is called gingivitis, which can be reversed if caught early. However, if left untreated, the gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, which is considerably more severe.

The bacteria can invade the bone that supports your teeth, break them down, and compromise the tooth root. This destruction can lead to tooth loss, as well as bone loss in the jaw.

Periodontitis and Heart Disease

Research suggests a link between periodontitis and heart disease.

The bacteria that cause gum disease can enter the bloodstream and travel to the heart, causing infections or contributing to the formation of blood clots that can result in heart attacks or strokes.

Studies have shown that gum disease increases the risk of heart attack by up to three times, and the risk of stroke by up to two times. The exact mechanism by which periodontitis affects heart disease is not yet fully understood.

Nevertheless, it is clear that the disease can put your cardiovascular health at risk.

Periodontitis and Diabetes

Diabetes and periodontitis have a bidirectional relationship. People with diabetes have a higher likelihood of developing gum disease, which can also make their blood sugar levels more challenging to control.

Additionally, periodontitis can increase the risk of complications related to diabetes.

The high blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can increase inflammation in the body, making it more challenging to combat infections such as gum disease.

This inflammation can also damage vital organs such as the kidneys, heart, and even lead to blindness.

Periodontitis and Pregnancy

During pregnancy, hormones can cause a woman’s gums to become red, swollen, and bleed easily. This condition is known as pregnancy gingivitis and is easily treatable when diagnosed early.

However, if left untreated, this can progress into periodontitis, which can be dangerous for both the mother and the developing baby.

Periodontitis during pregnancy is associated with premature birth, low birth weight, and preeclampsia, a potentially life-threatening complication for the mother and fetus.

Therefore maintaining good oral hygiene during pregnancy is essential for the health of both the mother and baby.

Related Article Deadly Consequences of Advanced Periodontitis

Periodontitis and Respiratory Infections

Studies suggest that periodontitis can increase the risk of respiratory problems such as pneumonia. Harmful bacteria from the mouth can be aspirated and enter the lungs, increasing the risk of infection and inflammation.

Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a group of progressive lung diseases that include emphysema and chronic bronchitis, can be particularly susceptible to respiratory infections.

Therefore, treating gum disease in patients with COPD could improve their lung health and limit the number of severe respiratory infections they experience.

Periodontitis and Dementia

Research suggests that untreated gum disease can contribute to cognitive decline in older adults. One study showed that men with periodontitis were more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease than those who had healthy gums.

While the reason behind this link between gum disease and dementia is unclear, some researchers think that bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and trigger inflammation, leading to brain damage.

Therefore, good oral hygiene throughout your life could help reduce the risk of developing cognitive impairment.

Periodontitis and Cancer

Research studies suggest a link between periodontitis and various types of cancer, including pancreatic, esophageal, and oral cancers.

The exact mechanism by which periodontitis increases the risk of cancer is not clear. Some researchers believe that common risk factors can contribute to both gum disease and cancer, such as tobacco use or genetics.

Other studies show that periodontitis can stimulate an inflammatory response that can contribute to cancer development.

Prevention and Treatment of Periodontitis

The good news is that periodontitis is treatable and preventable. The key to preventing gum disease is to practice good oral hygiene, which includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and getting regular check-ups with your dentist.

If you have signs of early gum disease, your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing.

This process removes plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth and around the gum line and smooths out rough spots on the tooth root to eliminate bacteria.

If the gum disease has progressed to a severe stage, your dentist may recommend surgical intervention to reduce the depth of the pockets around the teeth or regenerate bone and tissue lost to the disease.

Conclusion

Periodontitis is a severe and common condition that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. However, the health risks associated with periodontitis go beyond losing your teeth.

The bacterial infection can enter the bloodstream and have a detrimental impact on your overall health, leading to conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer.

Therefore, it is crucial to practice good oral hygiene and get regular check-ups with your dentist to prevent and treat gum disease.

If you notice symptoms of gum disease, such as red or swollen gums, bleeding while brushing, or bad breath, talk to your dentist as soon as possible.