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Periodontal Disease Links to General Health

The treatment of periodontal disease is particularly important as a preventative measure, as inflammation of the gums can trigger inflammation and inflammation-related conditions in other parts of the body, which can lead to the development of general health concerns.

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Cardiovascular Disease

The bacteria which infect the gums due to periodontal disease also travel through the vascular system, causing instances of blood vessel inflammation and damage, which can lead to small blood clots, heart attack, and stroke. A number of studies suggest that successful periodontal treatment could reduce the incidence of cardiovascular events.

“Stella is very professional but at the same time has a lovely manner and makes you feel at ease! I only wish I’d have found her earlier! I’d just like to say thanks to Stella for being so excellent at what she does and the help she’s given me!”

Low Birth Weight Babies

Periodontal disease is a known risk factor for low birth weight because the bacteria which infect the gums get into the vascular system and can stimulate inflammation which interferes with the onset of delivery, triggering premature birth.

Kidney Disease

Periodontal disease is caused by low-level chronic infection, resulting in continuous inflammation which can lead to endothelial dysfunction – a coronary artery disease in which the large blood vessels on the heart’s surface constrict instead of dilating, causing pain and discomfort. Endothelial dysfunction is a driver of kidney disease.

“I have only good things to say about my experience of periodontal treatment with Stella. She has turned my experience of being a patient into a pleasure! Her kind and intelligent manner enables her to work inclusively with her patients. Her clinical excellence is outstanding, as are the results of her work.

Stella’s warm character is complemented by the excellence of standards she brings to all her work. She exceeds all my expectations and I recommend her most highly.”

Diabetes

Though the exact nature of the link is not yet known, studies have shown that people who suffer with periodontal disease are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes later in life. Research into the link continues, but one of the working theories is that the inflammatory markers caused by periodontal disease can induce insulin resistance. In people with Type 2 diabetes, periodontitis is associated with worse diabetes complications. However, treatment of periodontitis in people with diabetes has been shown to result in improved glycaemic control, therefore management of periodontitis in this group of patients has significant benefits for the management of diabetes.

Alzheimer’s

Studies have shown that people with gum disease who suffer from mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease decline in memory ability six times faster than those with good periodontal health. Further clinical studies are taking place to investigate the link between an increase in cognitive decline and the body’s inflammatory response.

“Stella’s gift is her ability to be quite factually blunt about disease issues, while offering kindness and support, communicating a genuine desire to promote my health. She has taught me how to support her work through dental hygiene – and always offered warmth, support and humour.

I am unbelievably fortunate to be in her care. I cannot praise too highly the professionalism, expertise, skill and knowledge base of Dr Stella K. She has been exceptional in her personal relationship with me.”

Pancreatic Cancer

The Health Professionals Follow-Up Study in the US began in 1986, and was commissioned to investigate the link between periodontal disease and pancreatic cancer. From a sample size of 51,529 men, the researchers confirmed that of 216 cases of pancreatic cancer between 1986 and 2002, 67 also had periodontal disease. After careful analysis of other factors, the study concluded that those with periodontal disease had a 63% higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer.

Arthritis

The bacteria responsible for gum disease can lead to the earlier onset, rapid progression and increased severity of rheumatoid arthritis, resulting in increased damage to bone and cartilage. Studies show that an increase in antibodies against gum disease occurs before the onset of rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.

“Stella and her team have been fantastic. Stella’s manner is amazing. Incredibly reassuring. Very professional (and so is her nurse!). I cannot think of a team I would rather entrust my teeth to. I cannot recommend Stella highly enough. If you’ve been advised to do this treatment, do it. It will improve your life.”

Asthma

A 2013 study by the British Dental Health Foundation concluded that those with gum disease are five times more likely to develop asthma than those with good periodontal health, even after other risk factors are taken into account. Asthma claims three lives every day in the UK.

Osteoporosis

Some studies suggest a greater tendency to lose alveolar bone, i.e. the bone that supports the teeth in the jaw, in patients with osteoporosis, especially in cases with pre-existing periodontitis. This indicates that osteoporosis can be a risk factor for progression of advanced gum disease. However, periodontal health can be restored even in patients with osteoporosis. Establishing periodontal health becomes even more important in cases where bisphosphonates are used for the treatment of osteoporosis, in order to prevent potential side effects from those medications (osteonecrosis of the jaw).