There’s an important reason to see your dentist regularly, and it goes beyond just having a beautiful smile. Dentists and dental hygienists can help promote better health for our gums and check for gum problems. Sometimes, gum problems can indicate other more serious health problems.
Here are some of the serious health problems that can be associated with gum disease:
- Diabetes. If you have diabetes, you’re at a higher risk for gum disease, according to the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP; gum disease is also called periodontal disease). That’s likely because people with diabetes are more susceptible to infections. If you have uncontrolled diabetes, you’re at an even higher risk of gum disease. Plus—"Research has suggested that the relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease goes both ways - periodontal disease may make it more difficult for people who have diabetes to control their blood sugar,” the AAP reports.
- Heart disease and stroke. Although the cause-and-effect relationship between gum disease and heart disease is not yet proven, research does seem to indicate that gum disease raises the risk of heart disease, the AAP reports. Inflammation caused by periodontal disease may be the culprit. Plus, if you have existing heart conditions, gum disease can make them worse. There’s also research to show a link between periodontal disease and stroke. If you have heart conditions and need dental procedures, you may need to use antibiotics beforehand.
- Other serious health problems. Osteoporosis, respiratory disease, and cancer are three more serious health problems that appear to be associated with gum disease, according to the AAP. For instance, osteoporosis may lead to tooth loss. Also, bacteria in the oral cavity can be breathed into the lungs and lead to respiratory problems such as pneumonia. Plus, the risk for kidney cancer, pancreatic cancer, and blood cancer are higher when you have gum disease, the AAP reports.
Despite the doom and glum over gum disease, there are some things you can do to lower your risk and take good care of your gums. Floss at least once a day, brush your teeth after meals, don’t smoke, and get regular dental checkups. If your gums are inflamed or have pulled away from your teeth, see your dentist for extra help.
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