Your teeth and gums play a significant role in the overall health of your body. It is in every patient’s best interest to maintain their mouth in an optimum state of health. Currently there are many studies in progress, conducted at both universities and research centers around the world to better understand the connection between oral bacteria and overall health.

Several of these studies indicate there are three ways oral disease can affect health.

1. Bacteria residing in your gums can enter the salvia in your mouth. As you breathe in, the saliva adheres to water droplets in the air. The water droplets laced with bacteria may be aspirated into your lungs bringing with them the possibility of causing a pulmonary infection or even pneumonia. This is especially hazardous for the elderly who may have a weakened immune system or those
   lung diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
2. The bacteria with periodontal disease found in the gums and around the teeth may be carried throughout the body via the body’s circulatory system. Secondary infections can be the results of the “traveling” bacteria.
3. Periodontal disease brings with it inflammation in the gums which may trigger a second systemic inflammatory response within the body or at least contribute to other diseases that may have an inflammatory origin, for example kidney disease.

It is often that the very first signs of compromised systemic health conditions reveal themselves in changes in your mouth. Some common signs of periodontal disease would include: bleeding gums, chronic bad breath, a family history of periodontal disease, pus, and shifting teeth.

If you are concerned about your oral health call our office for a consultation.