Systemic Health

Brain – According to the journal of the American Dental Association, chronic gum infection increases an individual’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease within their lifetime and potentially worsens the cognitive functions for those who already have Alzheimer’s disease.

Lungs – Inhaling bacteria from the mouth and throat can lead to pneumonia. Bacteria from periodontal disease can travel through the bloodstream to the lungs where it can aggravate respiratory systems. It is believed that a potential association may exist between periodontitis and COPD (Chronic Pulmonary Disease)

Atherosclerosis – High levels of disease-causing bacteria in the mouth can lead to clogging of the Carotid Artery and increased risk of stroke.

Pancreas – When you’re diabetic, your pancreas doesn’t make enough insulin. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to gingivitis and other oral manifestations. 95% of US adults with diabetes also have periodontal disease. By eliminating gum infection, you may be able to directly improve diabetic control.

Colorectal Cancer – A strain of mouth bacteria that causes gum disease may play a significant role in colorectal cancer, according to two Independent studies – one from Harvard, the other from Case Western Reserve University. Investigators found that bacteria from the mouth (Fusobacteria) has traveled through the blood stream and have been found in tumors in the colon.

Erectile Dysfunction – Periodontal bacteria can travel through the bloodstream, enflaming blood vessels and blocking blood flow to the genitals. In fact, men with periodontal disease are 7x more likely to experience erectile dysfunction than men with good dental hygiene.

Pregnancy – Expecting mothers with periodontal disease are more likely to have a pre-term birth. Treatment of the periodontal disease during pregnancy decreases the chance of early childbirth by 50-70% of women will develop gingivitis sometime during their pregnancy, a condition called pregnancy gingivitis.