The Mouth/Body Connection
Uncovering the Links Between Oral Conditions and Chronic Disease
As I study the advances in dental research and consider the impact of its results on my patients, I am fascinated by our increased understanding of the close relationship between periodontal disease and cardiovascular conditions, rheumatoid arthritis, and adverse pregnancy results. The common element between these “mouth and body” conditions is inflammation. Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection which produces an inflammatory response similar to the processes that occur in the blood vessels in these three “body” conditions. Some studies show that periodontitis may contribute to the development of the vascular inflammation and atherosclerosis that are the primary factors for heart disease.
Gum Disease and Rheumatoid Arthritis
There is also a potentially significant connection between periodontal disease and rheumatoid arthritis, (RA), which came to light when researchers found the incidence of both diseases in the same study subjects. An investigation of the synovial joint fluid in patients suffering from RA indicated the same pathogens found in gum disease. One study showed that perio bacteria may amplify the autoimmune response which produces RA in genetically susceptible patients.
Gum Disease and Diabetes
Some studies indicate more preterm low birth weight babies among women with gum disease supporting the importance of good oral health throughout a healthy pregnancy. The strongest “mouth and body” link appears to be between periodontal disease and diabetes. Diabetes is the number one systemic risk factor for gum disease and untreated gum disease increases insulin resistance. Studies from earlier this year indicate that treating gum disease improves glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes for at least three months.
