How Gum Disease May Affect the Lungs

Periodontal disease, also simply called gum disease, is caused by built up bacteria below and along the gum line. Critical forms, such as trench mouth or necrotizing gingivitis, often involve pain due to oral tissue that’s gone bad whereas chronic forms, while painless, have more long-term impacts on one’s overall health.

A commonly seen chronic form of gum disease is gingivitis, which leads to bleeding, redness, and puffiness caused by plaque. Both gingivitis and its advanced form, periodontitis, can affect more than just the mouth, however—they could also cause infections elsewhere in the body, including in the lungs.

Oral Bacteria

There are large amounts of bacteria within the mouth—mostly benign—but when it comes to pathogens, it’s a different story altogether. While it was believed originally that oral bacteria only affected the gums and teeth, research is now suggesting these bacteria can spread easily to different parts of an individual’s body.

Chronic exposure to these bacteria, in addition to the subsequent inflammation, creates problems for the gums, and it’s these problems that allow the bacteria to travel outside the mouth, leading to inflammation in other sections of the body.

For instance, the bacteria that cause pneumonia and bronchitis can originate from the mouth, and poor oral health can even allow these bacteria to increase before they even spread outside the mouth. These bacteria may also accrue around certain appliances, such as bridges and dentures, emphasizing the importance of daily oral health care routines.

At-Risk Groups

As for those who are especially at risk for developing respiratory conditions caused by oral bacteria, crowded communities with particularly delicate health have increased chances of not only developing an illness but also of it spreading. Seniors, especially those living in nursing facilities, have the highest risk of developing respiratory illnesses brought on by oral bacteria. Individuals with compromised immune systems resulting from other conditions are at risk as well.

Prevention

Preventing the development of oral bacteria-based respiratory conditions is simple, so long as individuals are committed to solid oral health care routines and keeping dental appliances clean. It’s best to have at least one professional cleaning every six months, though the number of cleanings may vary between cases—dentists can work with their patients to help come up with a plan just for them and their oral health. For those who have respiratory problems already, ask your doctor about managing care alongside that of your dentist.

Are you not going to the dentist because of the high cost of dental bills? Consider signing up for one of our New Hampshire discount dental plans for individuals, families, or business owners. For more information, please click here.