The Whole-Body Threats of Untreated Gum Disease

Often when we think of oral health, we picture shiny, white teeth, or perhaps a radiant smile. But underlying those teeth, silently working to support them, are our gums. Gums play a pivotal role in not just oral health, but our overall health too. At Smiles in Malibu under the expertise of Dr. Bob Perkins, we emphasize the importance of understanding gum disease, not just as a dental issue but as a serious risk to whole-body health.

Gum Disease: A Brief Overview

Gum disease, clinically termed as periodontitis, starts as a bacterial infection in the mouth. When plaque builds up between the teeth and gums, it provides a thriving environment for harmful bacteria. If not addressed in its early stage, known as gingivitis, it progresses, causing inflammation, bleeding, and eventually, can lead to tooth loss. But its impacts don’t stop at the mouth; it’s what this condition can instigate elsewhere in the body that’s truly concerning.

The Domino Effect: From Mouth to Body

There is more than one way that untreated periodontal disease can impact your body. Here are some potential threats to be aware of:

• Heart Disease: Several studies have indicated a direct correlation between periodontitis and an increased risk of developing heart disease. The inflammation caused by gum disease is believed to lead to atherosclerosis (hardening of arteries), which can result in heart attacks.
• Diabetes: Diabetics are more prone to infections, including gum infections. Conversely, severe periodontal disease can increase blood sugar, thereby leading to increased periods of time when the body functions with a high blood sugar, putting diabetics at increased risk for diabetic complications.
• Respiratory Issues: Bacteria from the mouth can be inhaled into the lungs, leading to respiratory diseases like pneumonia. Especially for those with pre-existing conditions, untreated gum disease can exacerbate respiratory problems.
• Pregnancy Complications: Pregnant women with periodontitis may be at a higher risk for pre-term births and low birth weight babies. The inflammation can produce chemicals that induce labor prematurely.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: The bacteria produced by periodontal disease can increase inflammation throughout the body, which in turn increases the risk for rheumatoid arthritis, a debilitating and painful disease.

Prevention is Better than Cure

Understanding the systemic implications of gum disease underlines the importance of proactive dental care. Regular check-ups, maintaining good oral hygiene through brushing and flossing, and adopting a balanced diet are steps in the right direction.

How Dr. Bob Perkins and the Team at Smiles in Malibu Can Help

At Smiles in Malibu, we employ a comprehensive approach to dental health. Dr. Perkins believes that the mouth is a mirror to the body, reflecting overall health. With advanced screening methods and individualized treatment plans, we aim not just to treat but to educate our patients on the interconnectedness of oral and overall health.

If gum disease is identified in its early stages, it’s not just treatable but completely reversible. Even advanced cases can be managed effectively with professional intervention. Dr. Perkins employs a combination of modern techniques and holistic approaches to ensure your gums, and by extension, your entire body, remains healthy.

Book Your Routine Dental Visit Today!

Gum disease isn’t merely an oral concern; it’s a whole-body threat. The potential ramifications of untreated periodontitis serve as a reminder of the interlinkages between our mouth and our general health. At Smiles in Malibu, we’re committed to helping you understand these connections and to providing the care and guidance necessary to ensure your complete well-being. Book an appointment with Dr. Bob Perkins today, and take a comprehensive approach to your health.