Healthy Gums ….Gateway to Healthy Life
Periodontal [Gum] disease can predispose individuals to several systemic diseases such as Cardiovascular disease, Gastrointestinal disease, Diabetes, adverse Pregnancy outcomes, Breast Cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, etc.
Cancer and Gum disease
The periodontal bacteria themselves or inflammation due to periodontal disease has effect on other parts of the body, including breast tissue. Woman with gum disease may need to watch out for breast cancer.
- The risk of breast cancer was 14% higher in women who had gum disease compared to women who don’t have gum disease.
- Periodontal inflammation recruits distant metastatic breast cancer cells by increasing myeloid-derived suppressor cells .
Diabetes and Gum disease
Severe periodontal disease can increase blood sugar , contributing to increase periods of time when the body functions with a high blood sugar .
- Signs to look : Swollen, tender and bleeding gums.
Pregnancy and Gum disease
There is a direct connection between pregnancy and bleeding gums .
- During pregnancy, increased levels of hormones {progesterone} cause an high response to plaque bacteria which can lead to gingivitis.
- The bacteria causing inflammation in the gums can actually get into the bloodstream and target the fetus, potentially leading to premature labour and low birth weight babies.
Heart and Gum disease
Periodontal disease does not affect just your gums it also affect your arteries and your heart.
- Gum disease may increase the risk of heart disease as the bacteria and the inflammation in the gums may eventually lead to narrowing of important blood vessels.
Lungs and Gum disease
Studies show Pneumonia is more common in people with gum disease.
- Bacteria in the mouth can move to the lungs and cause infection.
Keeping our gums healthy not only reduces the risk of diseases, but also helps us to have a healthy mouth ,healthy life and a confident smile. So never rush when you brush. Meet your Dentist periodically, so that you can greet your life happily.
” Keep Your Gums Right To Smile Bright “