Oral Health and Systemic Diseases
The oral cavity contains many different tissue types that
can be affected by many pathologic conditions to represent a local systemic
problem. It is also a more accessible region for diagnostic testing to detect
systemic disease. Studies have shown that periodontal (gum) disease may be
linked to cardiovascular disease, stroke, bacterial pneumonia, preterm births
and low-birth weight babies. It is suggested that patients with periodontal
disease are nearly three times more likely to suffer from heart disease. This
is because oral bacteria can enter the blood stream, attach to fatty plaques in
the heart’s blood vessels and contribute to the formation of clots.
Diabetic patients are more susceptible to oral health
conditions such as tooth decay, gum disease, dry mouth and infection. High
blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels which limits the supply of oxygen
and nourishment to the gums. This makes chance of infections to the gums and
bones more likely. Levels of glucose in saliva can increase due to uncontrolled
blood sugar levels. This increases the risk of gum disease and dental decay due
to it being a preferable environment for bacteria. Severe gum disease can also
negatively affect blood sugar as scientists think that some of the inflammation
in the gums can escape into the bloodstream and trigger the immune system which
leads to the release of powerful molecules that have harmful effects on the
body, resulting in deteriorated blood sugar control.
Pregnant women have increased hormone levels which mean a
greater risk of inflamed gums which can lead to periodontal disease if ignored.
Women going through menopause have an oestrogen deficiency which speeds up the
progression of oral bone loss and tissue loss. By providing oestrogen
supplements to post-menopausal women attachment loss reduces and inflammation
lowers which overall protects the teeth from gum disease. This shows the effect
of hormone changes on oral health care.
Osteoporosis can weaken and damage jawbones; which reduces
mobility; and trigger oral issues such as gum disease and loss of teeth. Weaker bones are more likely to bread down due
to inflammation from gum disease which is why gum disease is more progressive
in patients with osteoporosis.
Cirrhosis is scarring of the liver that prevents normal
function and is caused by long-term liver damage. It can eventually lead to
liver failure which can be fatal. Periodontitis can be a source of oral
bacterial translocation, causing inflammation and increasing cirrhosis
complications. Studies have shown that severe periodontitis can be associated
with higher all-cause mortality in cirrhosis patients.
Asthma and COPD medications can lead to dry mouth and oral
candidiasis (yeast infection). Sleep apnoea can also cause dry mouth and lead
to an increase in decay and gingivitis. Research has also found that oral
pathogens can increase the likelihood of developing COPD and aspiration
pneumonia (lung infection caused by material from the stomach or mouth entering
the lungs). The bacteria can accumulate at the back of the throat and be
inhaled which can lead to a lung infection or worsening an already present respiratory
problem. Dental plaque can also be a source of anaerobic bacteria which can
cause respiratory issues such as pneumonia.
Overall, the bidirectional relationship between oral health
and system health cannot be overemphasised. Good oral hygiene must be
maintained and regular check-ups needed in order to prevent gum disease and
systemic issues that may lead from that.
I hope you found this interesting to read.
Written by Lizzie Nash
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