Understanding the Whole Body Connection

The Surprising Links Between Your Gums and Your Body

Here are some specific medical conditions that researchers have linked directly to gum disease:

• Heart Disease

  Gum disease and heart disease are closely intertwined. The inflammation caused by gum disease can contribute to the formation of arterial plaque, which increases your risk of heart attack and stroke. In fact, people with active gum disease are twice as likely to have cardiovascular disease and 20% more likely to suffer a cardiovascular attack.
• Diabetes

  There’s a two-way street between diabetes and gum disease. High blood sugar can make you more prone to gum disease, and in turn, gum disease can make it harder to control your blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, treating gum disease can help improve your blood sugar control, according to The Journal of the American Dental Association.

• Respiratory Illnesses

  The bacteria in your mouth that cause gum disease can be inhaled into your lungs, potentially leading to or exacerbating conditions such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and COPD.
• Pregnancy Complications

  Expectant mothers with gum disease face higher risks of premature birth and low birth weight babies. Periodontal disease in pregnant women can also be linked to an increased risk of preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and miscarriage.
• Alzheimer's Disease

  Recent studies have found evidence of the bacteria that cause gum disease in the brains of people who had Alzheimer's, suggesting a potential link. While more research is needed, maintaining good oral health may be a factor in protecting against this devastating disease.