Mouth - Body Connection

Research studies have shown that there is a strong association between periodontal disease and other chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, pregnancy complications and respiratory disease.

Periodontal disease is characterized by chronic inflammation of the gum tissue, periodontal infection below the gum line and a presence of disease-causing bacteria in the oral region.  Halting the progression of periodontal disease and maintaining excellent standards of oral hygiene will not only reduce the risk of gum disease and bone loss, but also reduce the chances of developing other serious illnesses.

Common cofactors associated with periodontal disease:

Diabetes

A research study has shown that individuals with pre-existing diabetic conditions are more likely to either have, or be more susceptible to periodontal disease.  Periodontal disease can increase blood sugar levels which makes controlling the amount of glucose in the blood difficult.  This factor alone can increase the risk of serious diabetic complications.  Conversely, diabetes thickens blood vessels and therefore makes it harder for the mouth to rid itself of excess sugar.  Excess sugar in the mouth creates a breeding ground for the types of oral bacteria that cause gum disease.

Heart Disease

There are several theories which explain the link between heart disease and periodontitis.  One such theory is that the oral bacteria strains which exacerbate periodontal disease attach themselves to the coronary arteries when they enter the bloodstream.  This in turn contributes to both blood clot formation and the narrowing of the coronary arteries, possibly leading to a heart attack.

A second possibility is that the inflammation caused by periodontal disease causes a significant plaque build up.  This can swell the arteries and worsen pre-existing heart conditions.  An article published by the American Academy of Periodontology suggests that patients whose bodies react to periodontal bacteria have an increased risk of developing heart disease.

Pregnancy Complications

Women in general are at increased risk of developing periodontal disease because of hormone fluctuations that occur during puberty, pregnancy and menopause.  Research suggests that pregnant women suffering from periodontal disease are more at risk of preeclampsia and delivering underweight, premature babies.

Periodontitis increases levels of prostaglandin, which is one of the labor-inducing chemicals.  Elevated levels prostaglandin may trigger premature labor, and increase the chances of delivering an underweight baby.  Periodontal disease also elevates C-reactive proteins (which have previously been linked to heart disease).  Heightened levels of these proteins can amplify the inflammatory response of the body and increase the chances of preeclampsia and low birth weight babies.

Respiratory Disease

Oral bacterium linked with gum disease has been shown to possibly cause or worsen conditions such as emphysema, pneumonia and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).  Oral bacteria can be drawn into the lower respiratory tract during the course of normal inhalation and colonize; causing bacterial infections.  Studies have shown that the repeated infections which characterize COPD may be linked with periodontitis.

In addition to the bacterial risk, inflammation in gum tissue can lead to severe inflammation in the lining of the lungs, which aggravates pneumonia.  Individuals who suffer from chronic or persistent respiratory issues generally have low immunity.  This means that bacteria can readily colonize beneath the gum line unchallenged by body’s immune system.

If you have questions or concerns about periodontal disease and the mouth-body connection, please ask your dentist. We care about your overall health and your smile!

Testimonials.

Read what people are saying about us.

read more

Testimonials

I’ve been a patient here at Dr. Little‘s office for a number of years. However I haven’t been in for a couple of years due to retiring and trying to get dental insurance. When I came into the office I was greeted as if I had never been gone. I had A couple of x-rays, teeth cleaning, teeth polishing, and set up an appointment for six months from now. Dr. Little came in to meet with me and The dental hygienist. My x-rays did not show any problems and we had a good discussion. I recommend this dental office to anyone who is looking for dental care. This has always been a supportive environment for me and I’m sure for everyone else who comes for care here.

MaryDale S.

We have been patients at Corvallis Dental Care for almost 20 years. We always find the staff very helpful and friendly. They make you feel like family. Dr. Little is friendly and caring and is a master craftsman with all aspects of dentistry. He takes great pride in his work. Since finding Dr. Little, I actually look forward to going to the dentist. I highly recommend Dr. Little and his office.

Tina N.

I have been a patient of Dr. Little for a number of years. I have been to many dentists in the past. I have never been happier with any Dentist. Dr. Little does outstanding work, is thorough, friendly and always takes the time to listen. I would highly recommend Corvallis Dental Care.

Robin is my hygienist at Corvallis Dental Care. Robin is very accomplished and professional, with great chair side manner. Again, I would highly recommend Robin.

Overall, Corvallis Dental Care will always be my choice for dental care.

Joanne S.

View More

Contact Us. We encourage you to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. Please call our office or use the quick contact form below.