Medical Health and Periodontal Disease
Periodontal Infection is a Medical Problem
Periodontal disease is no longer thought of as just a dental problem. Research is finding many correlations between periodontal infection and serious medical problems.
Throughout your life your overall health may change and therefore your oral care needs may change. Healthy gums helps you to a healthier body.
When periodontal infection gets into the bone around your teeth, the infection releases bacteria and toxins into the bloodstream leading to serious health risks.
While the exact mechanisms for their influence are unclear, there are many fascinating theories. Below are some of the possible explanations.
If you think you have periodontal disease, you may want to see a periodontist like Dr. Hoffmeyer, who is a specialist with extra skills and training in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease.
Systemic Diseases
Diabetes and other medical diseases can lower the body’s resistance to infection and inflammation by periodontal bacteria.
Medications
- Medications that can affect the gums:
- Heart medicines (calcium channel blockers)
- Anti-seizure medications (epileptic seizures)
- Organ transplant medications
- Bisphosphonates (cancer)
- Antidepressants
- Oral contraceptives
- Hormones
- Asthma spray
Some drugs reduce the flow of saliva, causing dry mouth, red tissue, increased plaque and calculus, bleeding gums, bad breath and increased risk of periodontal problems. Other drugs cause enlarged gum tissue.