A Broadway Dentistry hygienist smiling as she talks with a patient in the chair before a cleaning in Fort Wayne

The Mouth–Body Connection

Research shows a strong association between periodontal disease and chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, pregnancy complications and respiratory disease. Halting gum disease and keeping up excellent oral hygiene lowers the risk of gum disease and bone loss, and of these other serious illnesses too.

Diabetes

People with diabetes are more likely to have, or be susceptible to, periodontal disease. Gum disease can raise blood sugar and make glucose harder to control, increasing the risk of serious diabetic complications. In turn, diabetes thickens blood vessels, making it harder for the mouth to clear excess sugar, which feeds the bacteria that cause gum disease.

A patient talking with a team member in the chair during a dental exam visit at Broadway Dentistry in Fort Wayne

Heart disease

One theory is that periodontal bacteria entering the bloodstream attach to the coronary arteries, contributing to blood clots and narrowed arteries that may lead to a heart attack. Another is that gum inflammation drives plaque build-up that swells the arteries and worsens existing heart conditions. The American Academy of Periodontology suggests that patients whose bodies react to periodontal bacteria have a higher risk of heart disease.

A smiling patient in the chair at Broadway Dentistry in Fort Wayne, which offers cosmetic dentistry and whitening

Pregnancy complications

Hormone changes during puberty, pregnancy and menopause put women at higher risk of periodontal disease. In pregnancy, gum disease raises levels of prostaglandin, a labor-inducing chemical, and of C-reactive proteins, which amplify inflammation. Both are linked to a higher risk of preeclampsia, premature labor and low birth weight.

Dr. Denise Acosta and a team member laughing with a young patient in a treatment room at Broadway Dentistry in Fort Wayne, where fillings and crowns are done

A dentist pointing to a dental X-ray on a screen at Broadway Dentistry in Fort Wayne

Respiratory disease

Bacteria linked with gum disease may cause or worsen emphysema, pneumonia and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). They can be inhaled into the lower respiratory tract and cause infections, and the repeated infections of COPD may be linked with periodontitis. Gum inflammation can also inflame the lining of the lungs, aggravating pneumonia, and people with chronic respiratory problems often have low immunity, letting bacteria colonize below the gum line unchecked.

If you have questions or concerns about periodontal disease and the mouth-body connection, please contact our office. We care about your overall health and your smile!