General Health
The relationship between our dental health to our general medical health has been linked in numerous studies. The health condition of our bodies can have an effect on our oral health. Our oral health may be correlated with certain systemic medical conditions.
Periodontal disease has been closely associated with the following medical conditions:
- Heart Disease - periodontal disease may increase the risk of heart disease and may increase the extent of existing heart disease.
- Diabetes - Patients with diabetes are more susceptible to all infections including periodontal disease. In addition, it has been reported that increases in the activity of periodontal disease may decrease a patient's control of their blood sugar levels.
- Premature Labor - When an expectant mother has gum disease she may be more likely to deliver a low birth weight child before her scheduled due date.
A few of the medical conditions that can present themselves in the oral cavity are listed as follows: diabetes, autoimmune disorders, dry mouth, eating disorders, blood abnormalities, liver disease, GERD, to name a few.
