Tooth and Gum Health

The CDC reports that half of American adults have gum disease. Beyond the problems tooth decay and gum disease cause your mouth, periodontitis is also associated with serious health conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, cancer and respiratory disease. Researchers, however, are still trying to understand these relationships.

The next time you feel like skipping brushing or flossing, remind yourself that maintaining oral health is likely about much more than keeping your smile beautiful. You also could be helping stave off diseases such as:

Breast cancer – Research by the Women's Health Initiative Observational Study found postmenopausal women with periodontal disease were up to three times more likely to develop breast cancer than women without the disease.

Cardiovascular disease – According to Harvard Medical School, people with gum disease are up to three times more at risk for heart attack and stroke. Some believe periodontitis increases the body's overall inflammation. Others think gum disease bacteria makes its way into the bloodstream and contributes to fat buildup in the arteries.

Diabetes – Individuals with diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease because of their weakened immune systems. Still, gum disease may also play a role in worsening diabetes by making blood sugar more difficult to control.

Pneumonia – If bacteria from the mouth migrate to the lungs, they can cause breathing difficulties, including pneumonia.

Pregnancy complications – Periodontal disease may raise expectant mothers' risk of delivering preterm or low birth weight babies, making regular brushing and flossing an important health habit.

Risk factors for gum disease include genetics, gingivitis, hormonal changes like menopause, vitamin C deficiency, obesity, smoking, medications, diabetes, arthritis, Crohn's disease and cancer treatments. Talk to your dentist about your risk factors.

Back