Periodontal Disease and Respiratory Disease
Did you know that your oral health could be linked to your ability to breathe freely? Studies show there's a back-and-forth relationship between Periodontal Disease and breathing problems like pneumonia and COPD. Bacteria from your mouth can enter your respiratory system, possibly worsening breathing issues. On the flip side, inflammation from breathing problems might make gum disease worse, too.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a long-lasting inflammation affecting the structures supporting your teeth. It's been getting more notice lately because of its link to respiratory diseases.
How Does Periodontal Disease Cause Respiratory Disease?
While the exact cause-and-effect relationship is not fully understood, oral and respiratory systems may influence each other. Here are some ways in which periodontal disease could contribute to respiratory issues:
1. Inhalation of Oral Pathogens
Periodontal disease develops when harmful bacteria are in the mouth. These bacteria can be inhaled in severe situations, possibly causing infections or worsening existing respiratory conditions.
2. Systemic Inflammation:
Periodontal disease can cause constant swelling. Swelling in the gums can lead to swelling or inflammation throughout the body. This widespread swelling might impact your respiratory system and might be connected to issues like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
3. Immune Response Activation
When someone has periodontal disease, their immune system may react in a way that affects the entire body. If the immune system is always working hard to fight oral infections, it might make it harder for the body to fight respiratory infections effectively.
4. Shared Risk Factors
Periodontal disease and respiratory problems could have similar things that make them more likely, like smoking or specific health issues. People with not-so-great oral health might do things that raise the chances of getting respiratory diseases.
5. Aspiration Pneumonia
If someone has poor oral health, there's a higher chance of inhaling bacteria. This can cause a type of pneumonia called aspiration pneumonia, where the lungs get inflamed because of the bacteria from your mouth.
It's important to note that while these mechanisms are suggested by research, the field is still evolving, and the exact nature of the relationship between periodontal disease and respiratory disease is an active area of investigation. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene and seeking timely dental care can play a crucial role in reducing the potential impact of periodontal disease on respiratory health.
How Is Periodontal Disease Diagnosed?
When someone has respiratory and gum diseases, your dentist and doctor must work together to treat both issues. Depending on the specific problems with the teeth, gums, and jaw, there are various treatments, both without surgery and with surgery.
At Chew Dental Group, we can check for inflammation and tissue loss and treat the bacterial infection. Procedures like scaling clean the pockets around the teeth, and root planning smoothes the tooth root, removing the remaining bacteria. After cleaning, antibiotics are often added to help heal and reduce the risk of the infection returning.
No matter which treatment is chosen, managing gum disease has two benefits. First, it reduces discomfort in the mouth and makes the gums healthier. Second, it lowers the number of respiratory infections, like those associated with COPD and other common breathing problems.
Periodontal Disease Treatment in Fremont, CA
If you are concerned about your oral or respiratory health, schedule a consultation with Dr. Chew today for personalized advice and treatment.