How Periodontal Disease Affects Your Overall Health

It is no secret nor surprise that periodontal disease in Westlake affects your oral health, but it can have a substantial impact on your general well being as well. As plaque and tartar build-up on your teeth and your gums recede, you may be setting yourself up for some even more serious risks down the road. Periodontal disease has been linked to severe disorders and diseases such as dementia, heart disease, and even diabetes. Keep reading if you are interested in learning about how periodontal disease affects your overall health.

Dementia

If you have ever had a grandparent, parent, or older loved one slowly lose certain memories or skills, you may have witnessed the effects of dementia. This serious condition can drain an individual’s sense of personality and identity, leading to additional problems like depression and anxiety. What you might not know is that dementia may be linked to oral conditions like gum disease. Gum disease may increase your risk for a multitude of cognitive disorders like dementia, memory loss, and other impairments. Be sure to take care of your teeth and gums so that you can avoid this elevated risk in the future.

Heart Disease

Periodontal disease has also been associated with serious cardiovascular conditions. Multiple studies have linked periodontal and gum disease with heart disease and overall heart health. It is important to understand that these links do not necessarily confirm cause in one direction, but they do suggest that there is a correlation between these two aspects of health. If you experience gingivitis, gum disease, or periodontal disease, it is a good idea to discuss your condition with your cardiologist. Likewise, tell your dentist if you have preexisting heart conditions. These conversations could potentially save you from a heart attack in the future.

Diabetes

Although diabetes and gum disease may be linked, the connection might not be as strong if you have your conditions under control. The inflammation associated with diabetes could make you more susceptible to gum disease; at the same time, diabetics tend to be more likely to contract infections in general.