In our last two blog posts we have discussed the
relationship between gum disease and coronary artery disease and diabetes. We are continuing the discussion of the
oral-body link by introducing the results of research that has found a
connection of gum (periodontal) disease and other systemic illness.
Stroke is a disease affecting the blood vessels that supply
blood to the brain. A stroke happens
when a blood vessel bringing oxygen and nutrients to the brain bursts or is
clogged. Gums that have periodontal
disease release inflammatory chemicals and bacteria into the bloodstream. This release can result in clogging of the
arteries, affect blood platelets, and contribute to the onset of a stroke. Research studies have shown that poor oral
health, assessed by dental index, was more common in patients with cerebral
infarction (an area of the brain with restricted blood supply).
Infective endocarditis is a bacterial infection of the heart
valves or the heart lining. It occurs
when bacteria in the bloodstream lodge on abnormal heart valves or damaged
heart tissue. Endocarditis rarely occurs
in people with normal hearts, but people who have certain preexisting heart
defects are at risk for developing endocarditis when there’s a bacterial
infection circulating in the bloodstream.
Infective endocarditis is a serious and often fatal systemic disease
that has been associated with dental diseases and some treatment of periodontal
disease.
Pregnancy can influence gum health and gum health can
influence pregnancy. Changes in hormone
levels during pregnancy promote an inflammation called pregnancy
gingivitis. This type of gingivitis may
happen without changes in plaque (bacteria levels). Oral contraceptives can also produce changes
in gum health.
Gum disease is a gram-negative infection and may have the
potential to affect the outcome of pregnancy.
During pregnancy the ratio of these anaerobic bacteria versus aerobic
bacteria increases in dental plaque in the second trimester and the effect has
been in some cases, low birth weight babies.
The research continues to uncover more links between oral disease and our overall health. Studies
are also implicating a connection with Alzheimer’s disease, as well.
For information about other dental topics and to get your
free copy of our brochure, “The Mouth-Body Link,” visit www.DrTav.com