2:57 PM
Deborah K Ruprecht, D.D.S.
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It's true! Complications with your gums can cause serious problems all throughout the rest of your body.
Let's go from head to toe.
Dementia/Alzheimers
- The infection and inflammation of periodontal disease may be associated with cognitive decline and dementia.
Stroke
- Those with adult periodontitis may have increased risk of stroke.
Oral Cancer
- Chronic periodontitis may lead to the loss of bone and increased risk for oral cancer.
Respiratory Infections
- Inhaling bacteria from the mouth and throat can lead to pneumonia.
- Dental plaque buildup creates a dangerous source of bacteria that can be inhaled into the lungs.
Heart Disease
- Those with adult periodontitis may have increased risk of a fatal heart attack.
- Periodonitis also increases chances of being diagnosed with cardiovascular disease.
Severe Osteopenia
- Reduction in bone mass (osteopenia) is associated with gum disease and related to tooth loss.
- Severity has been connected to tooth loss in post-menopasal women.
Uncontrolled Diabetes
- Chronic periodontal disease can disrupt diabetic control.
- Diabetes can alter the pocket environment, contributing to bacterial growth.
- Smokers with diabetes increase their risk of tooth loss 20 times!
- People with Type II Diabetes are 3 times more likely to develop periodontal disease than nondiabetics are.
Don't let gum disease go unchecked. Your overall health depends on it.
