The Oral-Systemic Connection - Metropolitan Periodontists P.A

Numerous studies have shown a strong connection between periodontal health and overall health. Poor gum health has been linked to chronic conditions such as diabetes, pregnancy complications, and heart and respiratory disease. 

At Metropolitan Periodontists P.A., we stress the link between your oral and systemic health, providing patients of Minneapolis and the neighboring communities with comprehensive preventive care.

Common factors associated with advanced periodontal disease include:

Diabetes:

Periodontal disease is more likely to develop in diabetic individuals. Particularly for patients with type 2 diabetes, difficulty in maintaining proper blood glucose levels allows disease-causing bacteria to grow more easily within the mouth. 

At our Minneapolis dental practice, we work with diabetic patients to ensure that you are able to maintain proper periodontal health, regardless of complicating factors. Whether this means scheduling routine cleanings with greater regularity or working with your general health care provider, Metropolitan Periodontists P.A. will help you to prevent the onset of gum disease. 

Heart and Respiratory Disease:

Cardiac and respiratory difficulties both stem from the types of bacteria that cause periodontal disease. In the instance of heart disease, there are two dominant theories on how periodontitis influences the development of or aggravates cardiovascular disease. Constant inflammation from gingival infection leads to the hardening and expansion of arteries, constricting blood flow. The alternate cause of heart disease is the entrance of periodontal bacteria into the bloodstream, eventually restricting proper blood flow due to plaque buildup in the arteries. Regardless of the cause, periodontitis poses considerable health risks to patients’ cardiovascular condition, and can even lead to the development of blood clots. 

Much in the same way heart disease can be created through the entry of bacteria into the bloodstream, oral bacteria that enters the lower respiratory tract can cause or worsen conditions such as emphysema, pneumonia, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). With the presence of enough of this bacteria, normal respiration can allow the bacteria to enter the lungs, leading to respiratory complications. At Metropolitan Periodontists P.A., Dr. Wilson and Dr. Kersten work with you to maintain effective gingival health, preventing the development of cardiac or respiratory infections and disease.

Pregnancy Complications:

Due to hormonal fluctuations, pregnant women are more likely to develop periodontal disease along with other related complications. In addition to the increased likelihood for cardiac and respiratory disease, pregnant women exhibiting periodontal disease are at an increased risk for preeclampsia, as well as delivering underweight, premature babies. Periodontitis increases the production of various chemicals in the body known to trigger early birth and inflammatory responses. By ensuring your gingival health is maintained, Dr. Wilson and Dr. Kersten aim to promote your overall wellness, as well as that of your child.

Contact Our Minneapolis Practice

Beginning with the health of your smile, Dr. Wilson and Dr. Kersten and the entire team at Metropolitan Periodontists P.A. aim to provide for your total wellbeing. To learn more about achieving optimal oral and systemic health,  contact our Minneapolis practice today.