The effect of hormones associated with pregnancy on your gums
The hormones associated with pregnancy can affect the gums causing gum disease. Pregnancy associated gum disease can present as bleeding gums, smelly breath, and painful gums. We recommend all pregnant women visit their dental hygienist at least once during pregnancy as there is a link between gum disease to low birth weights and premature birth. Oral health is important before, during, and after pregnancy to help gain the best possible outcomes for mother and child. At The Dental Hygienist you will be guided through home care techniques to gain the best oral health for during your pregnancy and after.
Increased risk for gum diseases with diabetes
Gum disease is a chronic inflammatory disease. It can cause the destruction of the ligaments and structures that support and hold the teeth in place within the jaw bones. People with diabetes are at an increased risk of getting gum disease. The prevalence and severity of gum disease has been linked to the degree of hyperglycaemia. The link between gum disease and diabetes is not fully understood but is believed to involve immunity. Not only is there a link between diabetes increasing the risk for periodontitis but there is also a link between periodontitis affecting the control of blood sugar levels.
Link between increased stroke risk and periodontal disease
A link has been established between increased stroke risk and periodontal disease (gum disease). Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that causes an inflammatory response. The inflammatory markers associated with periodontal disease are indicators of stroke risk and also the bacteria causing periodontal disease can enter the bloodstream and have been identified in calcified plaque in the carotid arteries. The severity and length of time the periodontal disease has been occurring increases the risk for stroke. However this connection is still under discussion until there is undisputed evidence.
Heart disease
Heart disease has also been linked to periodontal disease (gum disease). There is a similar link between periodontal disease and heart disease as there is between stroke and periodontal disease. The risk of heart disease is increased by the inflammatory response and bacteria from periodontal disease. The bacteria enters the blood stream and travels throughout the body. This bacteria has been found in the calcified plaque deposits in the carotid arteries. Many people with heart disease will have very healthy mouths and not everyone with periodontal disease will develop heart issues. Although heart disease and gum disease have an association more research is necessary to establish if one causes or affects the other
Oral cancer
Active periodontal disease (gum disease) increases the risk for oral cancer. Oral cancer is among the 10 most common cancers in the world. Bacteria involved with periodontal disease is evident in the tissues of oral cancer. A clear link exists between periodontal disease and oral cancer however the connection is not well understood yet. It is still recommended that optimal oral health is the first line of defence against risk factors involved with oral cancer.
