Chronic Diseases Linked to Severe Gum Disease

In a large U.S. study shown in the Journal of Periodontology, patients with cardiovascular disease and diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and other systemic conditions were shown to face more than double the risk of severe gum disease (periodontitis).

In a cross-sectional analysis, conducted by the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, the authors utilized electronic records from nine dental schools which covered nearly 265,000 adults receiving periodontal therapy between a ten-year period between 2013 and 2023. Results pointed to individuals with diabetes and cardiovascular disease experiencing more than double the risk of severe gum disease. The study showed that as the severity of periodontitis increased, the correlation with systemic disease becomes more pronounced. One of the authors said “This study emphasizes that periodontitis’ escalating severity may serve as a valuable clinical marker for heightened comorbid disease risk.”

Periodontitis by the Numbers

Information from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) shows that:

• Nearly half of adults in this country over age 30 exhibit some form of gum disease, with the number increasing by age. Nearly 60% of adults age 65 and older experience a form of gum disease.
• Gum disease is more common in men than women, affecting more than 50% of men and 35% of women.
• Smoking puts you at risk for gum issues, with more than 60% of smokers having periodontal disease.

Tackling Gum Disease in South Florida

Periodontitis poses a significant health challenge across the world. While once perhaps viewed as a localized inflammatory condition in the mouth, countless studies over the last few decades point to its relationship to chronic, systemic disease.

At South Florida Center for Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we understand that bad breath and/or sore, swollen or bleeding gums, can mean damage to the soft tissue surrounding and supporting your teeth, signs of gum disease which, if not addressed, can lead to lost teeth and, as per these studies, related health concerns.

As specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of gum disease, we can normally reverse early-stage gum disease (gingivitis). Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent gum disease from worsening and becoming more costly to treat.

Call us at 561-912-9993 or complete our online questionnaire(see bottom of page) to schedule a consultation or exam today. Referrals are not necessary.