Periodontal disease (also called periodontitis and gum disease) has been linked to respiratory disease through recent research studies. Researchers have concluded that periodontal disease can worsen conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and may actually play a causal role in the contraction of pneumonia, bronchitis, and emphysema.
Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that generally begins with a bacterial infection. The bacteria found in plaque begin to colonize in gingival tissue, causing an inflammatory response in which the body destroys both gum and bone tissue. The sufferer may notice the teeth “lengthening” as the gums recede while the disease progresses. If left untreated, erosion of the bone tissue brings about a less stable base for the teeth, meaning loose, shifting, or complete tooth loss.
There are a number of different respiratory diseases linked
to periodontal disease. Pneumonia, COPD, and bronchitis are among the
most common. Generally, bacterial respiratory infections occur due to the
inhalation of fine droplets from the mouth into the lungs. COPD is a leading
cause of death and should be taken very seriously.
Reasons for the Connection
The fact that respiratory disease and periodontal disease
are linked may seem far-fetched, but there is plenty of evidence to support it.
Here are some of the reasons for the link between
periodontal disease and respiratory disease:
•
Bacterial
spread – The specific type of oral bacterium
that causes periodontal disease can easily be drawn into the lower respiratory
tract. Once the bacteria colonize in the lungs, it can cause pneumonia
and exacerbate serious conditions such as COPD.
• Low
immunity – It has been well-documented that
most people who experience chronic or persistent respiratory problems suffer
from low immunity. This low immunity allows oral bacteria to embed itself
above and below the gum line without being challenged by the body’s immune system. Not only does this accelerate
the progression of periodontal disease, but it also puts the sufferer at increased
risk of developing emphysema, pneumonia, and COPD.
• Modifiable
factors – Smoking is thought to be the
leading cause of COPD and other chronic respiratory conditions. Tobacco
use also damages the gingiva and compromises the good health of the oral cavity
in its entirety. Tobacco use slows the healing process, causes gum
pockets to grow deeper, and also accelerates attachment loss. Smoking is
not the sole cause of periodontal disease, but it is certainly a cofactor to
avoid.
•
Inflammation
– Periodontal disease causes the inflammation and irritation of oral
tissue. It is possible that the oral bacteria causing the irritation
could contribute to inflammation of the lung lining, thus limiting the amount
of air that can freely pass to and from the lungs.
Diagnosis and Treatment
When respiratory disease and periodontal disease are both
diagnosed in one individual, it is important for the dentist and doctor to
function as a team to control both conditions. There are many
non-surgical and surgical options available, depending on the specific
condition of the teeth, gums, and jaw.
The dentist is able to assess the extent of the
inflammation and tissue loss and can treat the bacterial infection
easily. Scaling procedures cleanse the pockets of debris and root planing
smoothes the tooth root to eliminate any remaining bacteria. The dentist
generally places antibiotics into the pockets after cleaning to promote good healing
and reduce the risk of the infection returning.
Whichever treatment is deemed the most suitable, the
benefits of controlling periodontal disease are two-fold. Firstly, any
discomfort in the oral region will be reduced and the gums will be much
healthier. Secondly, the frequent, unpleasant respiratory infections
associated with COPD and other common respiratory problems will reduce in
number.
If you have questions or concerns about respiratory disease
or periodontal disease, please ask your dentist.
