 More studies are needed, but some researchers suspect that bacteria and inflammation linked to periodontitis play a role in some systemic diseases or conditions. Likewise, diseases such as diabetes, blood cell disorders, HIV infections and AIDS can lower the body's resistance to infection, making periodontal diseases more severe.
Numerous studies have linked chronic inflammation from periodontitis with the development of cardiovascular problems. There is some evidence that suggests that oral bacteria may be linked to heart disease, artery blockages and strokes.
Diabetics often have periodontal disease, with a higher incidence of severe periodontitis. Research shows that individuals with diabetes are three to four times more likely to develop chronic gum infection. Contributing factors for this increase are their lowered resistance and longer healing process. Infection is a risk for the diabetic patient and can make it more difficult to control blood sugar (glucose) levels. In these cases, we may even suggest more frequent cleanings. Some dental insurance companies will even increase the frequency allowance for diabetic patients.
Oral candidasis, a fungal infection in the mouth, is another condition that appears to occur more frequently among patients with diabetes, including those who wear dentures. Bacteria, viruses and fungi occur naturally in the mouth. The body's natural defenses and regular oral hygiene generally keep them in check, but in some situations they may proliferate and impede or defeat the body's defenses.
Although periodontal disease can be a contributing factor in these health conditions, be aware that just because two conditions occur at the same time, it doesn't necessarily mean one condition caused the other one. ‡
|
|