Periodontitis is a widespread disease. An estimated 40% of the population suffers from this inflammation in the mouth, yet very few people are aware of the warning signs and the associated consequences for their general health. In many cases, poor oral hygiene is the cause. Research shows that periodontitis increases the risk of developing other diseases.
What is periodontitis?
When the periodontium — the tissue surrounding our teeth — becomes inflamed, this is known as periodontitis. It occurs in varying degrees of severity and predominantly affects adults and older people. It is frequently preceded by inflammation of the gums – known as gingivitis. In the worst case, there is a risk of tooth loss. Warning signs to be taken seriously include bleeding gums and receding gums.
The link between periodontitis and other diseases
Various studies have already examined this subject and identified links to other diseases. The following connections have been demonstrated:
Cardiovascular disease
Heart attacks and strokes are among the most common causes of death in Germany, and periodontitis has been shown to increase the risk of these conditions. It is believed that pro-inflammatory messenger substances and bacteria from the mouth enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body, where they promote further inflammation that contributes to cardiovascular disease.
Diabetes
Although periodontitis does not cause diabetes, the two conditions interact negatively with each other: each disease aggravates the other, and vice versa. In people with diabetes, periodontitis often progresses considerably more severely and rapidly than in those without diabetes.
Respiratory disease
The inflammatory bacteria present in the mouth as a result of periodontitis are also inhaled and thus carried into the airways and lungs. There they can cause further inflammation and contribute to respiratory disease. The risk for smokers is correspondingly higher.
Complications during pregnancy
As described above, the inflammatory bacteria in the mouth caused by periodontitis enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body. In pregnant women, this means these bacteria can also be passed on to the unborn child and may lead to complications. Ideally, periodontitis should be treated before pregnancy wherever possible.
Prevention and treatment of periodontitis
Thorough oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist are the best preventive measures for avoiding periodontitis. Any warning signs should be examined by a dentist as soon as possible and treated as part of periodontitis treatment in order to contain all risks and support your general health in the long term.
