Periodontal
disease & general health – is there a link?
Yes! The health of our mouth has a
direct influence on the health of the rest of our body.
Periodontal (gum) disease is an
inflammatory response and inflammation anywhere in the body has a negative
effect.
Recently the European Federation of
Periodontology condensed years of reliable scientific research linking
periodontal disease and systemic illnesses. The EFP manifesto acknowledges
periodontitis as a major public health issue.
How does the EFP
Manifesto relate to me?
Do you have cardiovascular disease?
‘Periodontitis leads to entry of bacteria into the
bloodstream. Periodontitis is a risk factor for developing atherosclerotic
cardiovascular disease’
Do you have diabetes?
‘Periodontal disease risk is increased by poorly controlled diabetes. If
you suffer from periodontal disease, your glycaemic control may be more
difficult to manage and you are at higher risk for diabetic complications such
as cardiovascular and kidney disease.’
Do you want to
reduce your risk of the onset of diabetes?
‘Emerging evidence indicates an increased risk for diabetes onset in
patients with severe periodontitis.’
‘There is also emerging evidence for associations between periodontal
diseases and chronic obstructive airways disease, chronic kidney disease,
rheumatoid arthritis, cognitive impairment, obesity, metabolic syndrome and
some cancers.’
How can I
improve my general health?
Removing plaque thoroughly from every tooth & every tooth surface
can reduce periodontal inflammation. This in turn will have a positive effect
on your general health.
Smoking cessation, balanced nutrition,
mindfulness, regular exercise & hydration are also important for health.
Rest assured we always monitor your periodontal
health at your dental health assessment and gum health programme appointments; ‘periodontal treatment reduces
systemic inflammation’.
Treatment and guidance, as part of
your gum health programme, is individually tailored to you - your mouth &
your health.
The Absolute team are proud to have
signed the EFP manifesto. We feel it is so important to share the research with
you so you can make informed choices about your health & wellbeing. If you
would like to read the manifesto you can find it here:
Christina