Our orders are delivered strictly on time without delay
In a 2-3 page paper, discuss and explain the link between periodontal disease and systemic conditions. Initially, identify the many systemic conditions linked to periodontal disease. Then, focus your paper on one specific condition.
- Discuss any etiological and pathological links.
- Discuss any risk factors associated.
- Discuss the effects between the systemic condition of your choice and periodontal condition.
Respiratory diseases: Pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Adverse pregnancy outcomes: Preterm birth and low birth weight.
Kidney disease: Chronic kidney disease.
Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune disorder characterized by joint inflammation.
Cancer: An increased risk for certain types of cancer, including oral, esophageal, and pancreatic cancers.
Alzheimer's disease: Recent studies have suggested a link between periodontal pathogens and the inflammatory processes in the brain associated with Alzheimer's.
Cardiovascular disease (CVD), which includes conditions such as atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), heart attack, and stroke, has one of the most well-documented and clinically significant links to periodontal disease.
Etiological and Pathological Links
The primary etiological link is inflammation. Periodontal disease is a state of chronic inflammation caused by a bacterial infection in the gums. This constant inflammatory response can contribute to systemic inflammation throughout the body. When oral bacteria and their by-products enter the bloodstream, they can trigger an immune response and contribute to the inflammatory process in blood vessels.
The pathological link is a process called atherogenesis. The bacteria associated with periodontal disease, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, can travel from the gums to other parts of the body via the bloodstream. Once in the arteries, these bacteria and the inflammatory mediators they trigger can contribute to the formation of plaque (atheromas), which narrows the arteries. This is the same process that leads to heart attacks and strokes. Some studies have even found the DNA of oral bacteria within atherosclerotic plaque, providing direct evidence of this link.
Risk Factors
Both periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease share several common risk factors, which can create a synergistic effect that increases the risk for both conditions. These include:
Smoking: A major risk factor for both gum disease and CVD. Smoking constricts blood vessels, reduces oxygen flow to the gums, and makes it harder for the body to fight off infection.
Diabetes: As previously mentioned, diabetes is a two-way street. Poor blood sugar control contributes to a more severe inflammatory response in the gums, and periodontal disease can make blood sugar control more difficult, increasing the risk of CVD.
Periodontal disease, a chronic inflammatory condition of the gums, is not just a localized oral health issue. A growing body of research has established a strong link between periodontal disease and various systemic conditions throughout the body. The chronic inflammation and bacterial load originating in the mouth can have far-reaching effects on overall health.
The list of systemic conditions linked to periodontal disease is extensive and includes:
Cardiovascular disease: Heart attack, stroke, and atherosclerosis.
Diabetes: Periodontal disease can worsen blood sugar control in diabetic patients, and poorly controlled diabetes increases the risk of gum disease.