Obesity can wreck your health in myriad ways, from weakening your heart to making you more vulnerable to diabetes. Now comes evidence that carrying too much weight also raises your risk of gum disease.
Chronic inflammation from obesity may weaken the bones, including those that hold the teeth in place, according to
new research out of the University of Buffalo in New York. As bone is lost, the risk of tooth loss grows.
The researchers found that the inflammation associated with obesity fosters development of cells that break down bone tissue, a major symptom of gum disease.
The study findings shed more light on the connection between oral health and systemic health in the body, says Dr.
Matthew J. Messina, a dentist and clinic director at The Ohio State University's Upper Arlington Dentistry.
While researchers have long been aware of a strong connection between periodontal disease and other systemic diseases, they previously “did not have as clear a sense of the actual physiologic pathway or metabolic connections," as experts would have preferred, says Messina, who is also editor with the Ohio Dental Association.
"When we can see the actual physiologic process, it helps with understanding of the relationship and also targets further research in the future," he says. "This is very good news for treatment of conditions that will lead to better health for everyone."
Can gum disease cause other health issues?
Gum disease is pervasive in American life. Nearly half -- 46% -- of all adults ages 30 years or older show signs of gum disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Severe gum disease impacts about 9% of adults.
Periodontal disease has been linked to several systemic health issues, including:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Diabetes
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Cancer
- Alzheimer’s disease
"The common link appears to be the inflammatory response of the body in reaction to the bacteria present in the mouth and gum tissues," Messina says.
Patients with gum disease are also at higher risk of other health conditions, such as a periodontal abscess that can lead to localized cellulitis and overall sepsis if not treated appropriately.
Fortunately, improving your periodontal health can lead to health gains, such as better control of blood sugar in patients with type 2 diabetes, Messina says.
"The body is an interconnected system, so poor oral health is a concern for the whole body," Messina says. "The converse is also true, as good oral health is a pillar of overall health."
How to keep your gums healthy
Ignoring problems with your gums is never a good idea. If you see signs of poor
oral health, consult a dentist promptly.
“Painful, red, bleeding gums are not normal,” Messina says. “It is a sign of lack of health and is a warning to you. Think of it as your body’s cry for help.”
A dentist can help you develop a dental regimen best suited to your specific condition so that you can restore good oral health, Messina says.
If your gums are healthy today, it is important to take steps to keep them that way. “Prevention is the key, and it is something that everyone can take a role in keeping themselves healthy,” he says.
Messina says his best advice is to always follow what he characterizes as the “healthy four”:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. Messina recommends looking for the American Dental Association “Seal of Acceptance” when choosing a toothpaste.
- Floss once daily. Alternatively, you can clean between your teeth with a water flosser or interdental
- Eat a healthy diet. Also, drink plenty of water.
- See your dentist on a regular basis. The ADA says there is “no one-size-fits-all dental treatment.” While some people need to see the dentist just once or twice annually, others may need more frequent visits. Your dentist should instruct you on how often you need to schedule dental care.
Overall, the most important thing to remember is that keeping your gums healthy is an essential step to keeping your entire body in great shape, Messina says. So, avoid “the fallacy of believing that because it’s in the mouth, it doesn’t matter.”
“Like the ad campaign, we know it’s false that ‘what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas,’” he says. “In the same way, what happens in the mouth doesn’t stay in the mouth.”
.jpg)
