Oral Systemic Link and Gum Disease

The oral-systemic link is a proven explanation of the different relationships inside the body. It is the link between the health of your mouth and your overall health. This is the reason for the onset of many chronic ailments and infections. The connection is clear, which means that taking care of your teeth and gums is imperative to keep you healthy. If you want to know how more about gum disease and the oral systemic link, here are the facts.

What the oral systemic link is

What happens in the mouth affects the body. The oral systemic link is real. It was first proven by a monumental study in 1954 that oral bacteria enter the bloodstream. These germs then spread to the different parts of the body. This can happen through dental extractions, constant chewing, gum cleaning, and even tooth brushing.

The strong connection between oral health and general health

The mouth is always full of good and bad bacteria. It is the main entrance to the respiratory and digestive systems. Some of the oral bacteria spill into these systems and cause illness. Proper oral hygiene and the immune system often work together to prevent the spread of bacteria. Neglecting to brush every day can lead to gum disease and cavities.

Some medications contribute to the overflow of bacteria in the mouth. Diuretics, decongestants, and antidepressants can decrease saliva production. This clear liquid can buffer the bacterial acids and wash away food particles. The absence of enough saliva in the mouth leads to the overpopulation of bacteria. The bacteria then lead to the development of disease and infections.

Conditions with an oral systemic link

Research shows that inflammation and oral bacteria from severe gum disease might contribute to the onset of some systemic diseases. Endocarditis is the infection of the inner lining of the heart. Its oral systemic link starts in the spread of oral bacteria into the bloodstream. The bacteria then enter the heart upon blood circulation and stay there.

Pregnant women could develop complications during pregnancy and birthing. Studies show a link between gum disease and low birth weight, as well as premature birth. An oral systemic link is also present in cardiovascular disease. Research suggests that stroke, heart disease, and clogged arteries may have a connection with oral infections and inflammation.

Studies prove the presence of a strong oral systemic link between gum disease and diabetes. Periodontal disease is more severe and common in people with diabetes than in those who do not have this chronic condition. Diabetes often results in poor blood circulation. This weakens many of the body’s organ systems, including the immune system.

Diabetes can weaken immunity, which puts gums at risk for more infection. Research shows that people with gum disease have difficulty regulating their blood sugar levels. HIV/AIDS, pneumonia, arthritis, and osteoporosis also have an oral systemic link. These systemic diseases are serious. Improving oral care practices, diet changes, and lifestyle modifications can help prevent them from worsening.

Frequently asked questions

1. What are the early signs of gum disease?

If you can catch gum disease early on, this significantly decreases the chances that bacteria from the mouth will spread to the rest of the body. Early signs are usually first detected during a routine exam at the dentist's. These signs include red or swollen gums, frequent bleeding, and early gum recession. At this point, treatment is fairly easy, and the issue can be reversed.

2. How can early gum disease be treated?

If it is in the very early stages, gum disease may be treated easily by better at-home care such as brushing and flossing more frequently. If this does not stop the progression, the patient will need to undergo a deep cleaning at the dentist's office. This consists of scraping off the tartar and plaque buildup and smoothing the teeth to prevent bacteria from sticking. It also helps the gum reattach to the teeth, reversing gum recession.  

Some of the worst chronic ailments have an oral systemic link to gum disease

It is quite intimidating to realize how connected your mouth and body are. It is more than feeling under the weather when you have a toothache. The moment infection strikes in the mouth, bacteria spread to the rest of the body. The oral systemic link activates when oral bacteria trigger the onset of various diseases. Working with your dentist can help control the spread of bacteria. Practicing good oral care can nip the infection in the bud.

Are you considering knowing more about the oral system link in the Madison area? Get more information at https://dentalcareofmadison.com.

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