7 Issues Linked To Poor Dental Care

Recent research has shown direct connections between dental health and general health. This makes regular visits to the dentist for dental examinations and professional cleanings doubly important. Poor dental health has been linked to many different health issues. Below you will find a list of the top 7 diseases associated with poor dental health.

Poor Dental Health Can Contribute to Dangerous Health Issues.

Cancer. 

Studies have shown a definite link between progressive periodontal disease and cancer. It is believed to be linked to systemic inflammation (a major factor in periodontal disease) which promotes the growth of cancerous cells. Researchers found that men with periodontal disease were 49% more likely to develop kidney cancer, 54% more likely to develop pancreatic cancer, and 30% more likely to develop cancers of the blood.

Heart Disease / Stroke.

When dental hygiene is not maintained, the bacteria in the mouth can multiply and grow out of control. This bacteria can enter the bloodstream and spread to the rest of the body. If the oral bacteria reach the heart, the bacteria can cause inflammation of the heart (endocarditis). This condition can lead to heart damage or even a stroke. Periodontal disease can also exacerbate existing heart conditions. Patients at risk for infective endocarditis may require antibiotics prior to dental procedures.

Respiratory Disease. 

Studies have found that bacteria that grow in the oral cavity can be aspirated into the lungs to cause respiratory diseases such as pneumonia.

Alzheimer’s Disease. 

This needs further study but recent research has linked poor oral hygiene maintenance with development of alzheimer’s disease.

Low Birth Weight For Newborns.

 Recent studies have shown periodontal disease in pregnant women to lead to possible low birth weight. Pregnant women who have periodontal disease may be more likely to have a baby that is born too early and too small. However, more research is needed to confirm how periodontal disease may affect pregnancy outcomes.  

Any and all infections are a concern to pregnant women because they pose a risk to the baby’ health. The American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology completed a study regarding early labor in pregnant women diagnosed with periodontal disease. A number of the participants were given an alcohol-free mouth rinse designed to kill the oral bacteria linked to periodontal disease, the other group were told to follow their usual procedures. Of the women given the mouth rinse, 25 percent saw a decreased risk in premature labor and delivery.

Diabetes. 

People with diabetes are more likely to have periodontal disease than people without diabetes. This is probably because people with diabetes are more susceptible to contracting infections. In fact, periodontal disease is often considered a complication of diabetes. Those people who don’t have their diabetes under control are especially at risk. 

Severe periodontal disease can increase blood sugar, contributing to increased periods of time when the body functions with a high blood sugar. This puts people with diabetes at increased risk for diabetic complications. Periodontal disease is a definite issue for people diagnosed with diabetes, because their body has a hard time fighting the infection. In addition, experts feel that periodontal disease also makes it harder for the body to regulate blood sugar levels in non-diabetic patients.

People with no prior signs of diabetes suddenly have high blood sugar levels, and people previously diagnosed with diabetes struggle to lower their blood sugar levels.

Conclusion

The evidence is mounting, showing that dental health is linked to general health. Periodontal disease alone is treatable, but can be quite a fight to manage once it reaches critical levels. Adding periodontal disease to systemic disease makes it even harder to control. It is best to manage periodontal issues early while your health is intact and stay healthy for a lifetime of smiles. Your dentist and hygienist will help teach you all that you need to know to keep your gums in optimum condition.