Studies have linked heart problems and other chronic health conditions to gum disease. The studies allude that people who don’t take care of their dental health will less likely commit to healthy eating habits and exercise. Medical doctors link it to early gum disease {gingivitis} and inflammation.
Unfortunately, these are mere assumptions because there is no tangible evidence of how gum disease, overall health, and inflammation are related.
However, a recent study issued in the Journey of Dental Research has now given some valid insight.
Gum Disease Causes Undesirable Immune System Response
The data presented by the University of Toronto researchers confirmed that mouth inflammation triggered by gum disease weakens the immune system, making it unable to fight potential health threats.
In the research, Vivo models suffering from periodontal disease exhibited higher levels of neutrophils. Neutrophils are inherent components of our immune system responsible for fighting bacteria.
An increase in neutrophils triggers an unwarranted attack by our immune system, which causes an extreme response to body injuries and infections. The over-the-top immune response can lead to the accidental destruction of body organs and tissues such as the brain, heart, and blood vessels.
When asked in an interview, Michael Glogauer, the study’s lead author, said that neutrophils are likely to discharge immune substances quicker than expected, which can negatively affect our health.
This study only relied on animal data, but scientific backing from previous research involving human subjects conducted and published in the Journal of Periodontology in 2011 gives deeper insights. The study established that blood samples from patients suffering from gum disease had hyperactive neutrophils.
In other words, the research found that when you leave your gums infected and inflamed by bacteria, you’re risking your immune system being overactive, which could trigger damage to other body parts.
Signs Your Oral Health Is not as good as you think.
It’s important to realize that gum disease is treatable. Treating gum disease is a matter of observing healthy lifestyles, ensuring your brush, and regularly floss your teeth. Use quality essential oils and hydro floss and avoid eating sugary laden beverages and foods.
Now that you learned about the chronic consequences of gum disease, it’s only wise you watch your dental health habits. To get you further motivated, these are common signs and complications linked to gum disease.
- Loosened teeth
- Unending bad breath
- Swollen, red, or tender gums
- Bleeding gums when you brush or floss
- Pain when you’re chewing
- Receding gums, making your teeth look longer.
- Extra sensitive teeth
Don’t be lax in thinking of the many risks associated with deteriorating dental health, such as heart disease and hypertension.
You already know that gum disease is costly to treat and can cause you embarrassment and pain. Don’t forget about the high costs of correcting your damaged teeth using expensive dentures, having dental surgery, or tooth extractions.
The only way to stay safe from these costly and risky health problems is to invest time and money to ensure quality oral hygiene. When you experience dental health problems, you should consult with a qualified biological dentist to examine and treat any existing or impending health problems.
