Periodontics is a specialized field of dentistry that focuses on the structures supporting your teeth, including your gums and jawbone. Maintaining the health of these structures provides additional benefits to the body. The condition of your gums has a direct relationship with your overall physical health. Here is how periodontal health impacts other systems in your body:
Preventing Tooth Loss
Healthy gums provide a strong foundation for your teeth. Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It typically develops when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on teeth and hardens.
As gum disease progresses, it causes inflammation. This inflammation leads to the development of deep pockets between the gums and teeth. These pockets may become infected, and the body’s response begins to break down the bone and connective tissue that secures the teeth. Over time, teeth may become loose and may either fall out or require removal. Consistent periodontal care helps manage the bacteria and inflammation that lead to this breakdown, supporting the stability of your teeth.
Lowering Heart Disease Risks
A connection exists between gum health and cardiovascular health. The bacteria that cause gum inflammation are capable of entering the bloodstream. Once in the bloodstream, these bacteria may travel to other parts of the body, including the heart.
The bacteria from inflamed gums may contribute to inflammation in the blood vessels. This process may be associated with conditions where arteries become hardened. By focusing on periodontics, you also may reduce the bacteria that could otherwise enter your circulatory system.
Protecting the Body from Infection
Your mouth is a primary entry point for bacteria into your body. While many bacteria are harmless, unhealthy gums offer an easy pathway for harmful bacteria to get into your bloodstream. This may be particularly relevant for individuals with compromised immune systems.
When gum disease is present, the inflamed and bleeding tissues create openings for bacteria to travel systemically. This circulation of bacteria can potentially affect other organs and systems. For people with conditions like diabetes, controlling periodontal disease may be part of managing their overall health, as infections can make it more difficult to control blood sugar levels. Maintaining healthy gums helps to fortify one of the body’s first lines of defense against infection.
Improving Breath
Persistent bad breath is a sign of underlying gum issues. While mouthwash and mints may temporarily mask the smell, they do not address the root cause. The bacteria can collect in the pockets that form around the teeth in advanced stages of gum disease. Addressing the gum disease itself by removing the plaque, tartar, and bacteria is an effective way to resolve chronic bad breath. Healthy gums do not provide the same environment for these odor-causing bacteria to thrive.
Find Comprehensive Periodontics
Taking care of your gums is an investment in your long-term, whole-body health. From preserving your teeth to supporting your cardiovascular system, the benefits are interconnected. Maintaining periodontal health helps protect your body from infection and enhances your overall quality of life. If you have questions about your gum health or would like to schedule an examination, contact a dental clinic today. Professionals can help you create a plan to maintain your periodontal well-being.
