Medical Health Encyclopedia

Other evidence suggests that the bacteria itself, particularly P. gingivalis, may play a direct role in arterial injury. In 2005, results from the NIH-sponsored Oral Infections and Vascular Disease Epidemiology Study (INVEST) determined an association between cardiovascular disease and the bacteria that cause periodontal disease. In this study, higher levels of periodontal bacteria were associated with thicker carotid arteries (a predictor of heart attack and stroke), regardless of C-reactive protein levels. While this study's findings are an important advance in understanding the relationship between periodontal and heart disease, it is still not clear if periodontal disease actually causes cardiovascular disease. Researchers hope that future results from INVEST  will clarify this issue.

Effect on Diabetes

Diabetes is not only a risk factor for periodontal disease, but periodontal disease may exacerbate or even cause diabetes. Some evidence has suggested that the bacteria causing periodontal disease may enter the blood stream and activate cytokines, the damaging factors in the immune system, which then may even destroy cells in the pancreas, where insulin is produced. One study found that treating periodontal disease reduced the need for insulin in some people with diabetes.

Effect on Respiratory Disease

Bacteria that reproduce in the mouth can also be carried into the airways of throat and lungs, increasing the risks for respiratory diseases and worsening chronic lung conditions such as emphysema.

Click the icon to see an image of emphysema.

Effect on Pregnancy

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A number of studies have strongly indicated that bacterial infections that cause moderate to severe periodontal disease in pregnant women increase the risk of premature delivery and low birth weight infants. The more severe the infection the greater the risk to the baby. Research indicates that the bacteria from gum disease, and from tooth decay, may trigger the same factors in the immune system as genital and urinary tract infections. These biologic substances, called prostaglandins and tumor necrosis factor, produce inflammation in the cervix and uterus that can cause premature dilation and contractions. Experts recommend that women have a periodontal examination before becoming pregnant or as soon as possible thereafter. Because women with diabetes are at higher risk for periodontal disease, it is especially important that they see a dentist early in pregnancy. A few studies have also suggested that periodontal disease may be associated with increased risk for preeclampsia, a life-threatening disorder that occurs in mid to late pregnancy and is characterized by high blood pressure.