The pale and sticky substance that builds on your teeth is called plaque. Not only is it unpleasant, but it also contains bacteria. If it is left to stay, the bacteria found in plaque can damage your gums and result in periodontitis. As a result, your gums can become swollen and irritable. By maintaining a good dental health regime, you can protect your gums and keep diseases at bay.
It may sound strange, but studies have shown that a vast majority of adults suffer from some form of gum disease. Over the years, medical practitioners and dentists have studied the effects of periodontal diseases and the mechanisms it involves. In this article, we will discuss in detail the unforeseen dangers of gum disease.
Let’s break it down.
Impact on the Brain
According to a few studies conducted in the past, it was found that there exists a link between gum diseases, tooth loss, and cognitive functions. In a study, more than 550 men were monitored for 32 years. The researchers concluded that the more teeth a person loses, the higher is the likelihood of cognitive decline.
Researches also say that gum diseases result in the formation of beta-amyloid in the human brain, which leads to Alzheimer’s. You should also know that, according to some researchers, the build-up of beta-amyloid in the brain takes place because of a pathogen. However, scientists are hopeful that they will be able to minimize neurodegeneration in the future because of Alzheimer’s.
Impact on Heart Health
Before we move forth with this point, you must understand that not every heart patient has a gum problem, and vice versa. However, there is some correlation between heart health and gum diseases. People who have unhealthy habits like drinking and smoking damage not only their dental health but also their cardiovascular health. However, there is much more on this topic rather than a few shared risk factors.
There are a few theories that explain the relationship between heart health and gum disease.
Most people believe that the link between heart problems and gum disease is inflammation, which isn’t 100% incorrect. Theoretically speaking, inflammation is your body’s defense mechanism against irritants and pathogens. However, if it happens for an extended period, it can damage your tissues and organs.
Alternatively, the connection between gum diseases and heart problems is also due to bacteria. The bacteria in your gums can make it into your bloodstream and to your heart, thus resulting in inflammation and bacteria. Researches have shown that P.Gingivalis is the most common bacteria detected in the coronary arteries.
Increase in the Likelihood of Cancer
Like heart diseases, there is no apparent correlation between gum diseases and cancer. However, in 2008, a bunch of scientists carried out a study. According to this study, it was found that thousands of people who have cancer also suffer from some form of tooth loss. The people who conducted the research were sure that there is an essential link between cancer and gum diseases.
Recently, a similar study was conducted on more than 65,000 individuals. The results of the study showed that people with gum diseases have a significantly high likelihood of developing some form of cancer in the future. In that same study, it was found that there exists a powerful connection between pancreatic cancer and gum diseases.
So, what is the reason behind any of this? An article published a couple of years ago can answer your question. The researchers found out that the bacteria associated with gum disease tend to produce an enzyme known to the world as Treponema denticola.
This is an enzyme that tends to appear in all the tumors found in the gastrointestinal tract. In gum diseases, the tissue is invaded by bacteria with the help of an enzyme known as T. denticola chymotrypsin-like proteinase. According to research, this enzyme leads to the production of other enzymes, which promote the growth of cancer cells, which further destroy healthy tissues.
Erectile Dysfunction
Studies have shown that more than 50% of the men above the age of 40 suffer from erectile dysfunction. Men can suffer from erectile dysfunction because of psychological or physiological reasons. Some of the most common causes include excessive drinking, smoking, and hypertension. However, some studies have shown that gum diseases also contribute to weaker erections in men. A study was conducted on this very topic in 2016. In that study, it was found that people with gum diseases had a higher likelihood of suffering from erectile dysfunction as they grew older.
Gum Diseases and Lung Problems
Your mouth is a direct gateway to the lungs and the gums. Therefore, you shouldn’t be surprised if you learn about the relation between gum Diseases and lung problems. Last year, a study was conducted on this topic. In that study, the researchers found that poor gum health reduces the respiratory function. Even if you suspend the possibility that the person is a smoker, you will find a considerable correlation between gum Diseases and lung Problems.
Final Few Words
These were just some of the many unforeseen dangers of gum disease. There are several other health conditions that gum diseases can pave the way for, so you must ensure that you don’t suffer from periodontal diseases.
To keep your teeth and gums healthy, make sure you brush your teeth and floss them regularly. After cleaning your teeth, make sure to gargle with a high-quality mouthwash. If you feel that your dental health is not great, you must visit a dentist immediately. In fact, it is essential to visit a dentist regularly, so you can avoid gum diseases in the first place.
Remember that your oral health has a huge impact on your overall health. So start prioritizing dental care to ensure a healthy future! If you have questions contact our office and we can help.
