ADVANCED GUM DISEASE

Advanced gum disease, also known as periodontitis, encompasses a range of diseases which can be harmful to one’s health. If left uncontrolled, periodontitis can cause destruction of the bone and soft tissue which supports the teeth. This can lead to tooth mobility and tooth loss which is a devastating outcome for both the patient and dentist. However, periodontitis can also have other sinister effects on general health which many people are unaware off.

The mouth harbors high levels of both good and bad bacteria. When gum disease is present the
number of bad bacteria increases dramatically. This bad bacteria can pass through the mouth and
affect other body systems. Evidence has been found to suggest there is a link between active
periodontitis and decreased heart health. It is suggested that this is due to bacteria from the mouth
entering the blood stream and causing inflammation in the blood vessels. This bad bacteria can also be inhaled into the lungs causing a phenomenon known as aspiration pneumonia.

Certain people are at a higher risk of these dangerous outcomes from periodontitis, so increased
precautions are needed to maintain good oral health. This includes people with diabetes as well as
expecting mothers. Patients with Diabetes are more susceptible to suffering from periodontitis, and during active gum disease they have a decreased ability to control their blood sugar levels. Women who have active periodontitis during pregnancy are at a higher risk of having a premature birth with a low birth weight baby. This comes with an array of increased health risks for the baby.

In order to avoid Periodontitis it is important to maintain good oral hygiene, this includes tooth brushing for two minutes twice a day and flossing daily. It is also important to visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleaning.

Sincerely,

~ Dr Rishi Weerasinghe ~