What does fact checked mean?
At Healthfully, we strive to deliver objective content that is accurate and up-to-date. Our team periodically reviews articles in order to ensure content quality. The sources cited below consist of evidence from peer-reviewed journals, prominent medical organizations, academic associations, and government data.
The information contained on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of a professional health care provider. Please check with the appropriate physician regarding health questions and concerns. Although we strive to deliver accurate and up-to-date information, no guarantee to that effect is made.
Medical Problems Caused by Rotten Teeth
Approximately 75 percent of the adult population has some level of periodontal disease, according to the American Academy of Periodontology. Periodontal disease is a serious bacterial infection that destroys the bone and connective tissue that holds the teeth in place, and is the primary cause of rotting teeth. Although preliminary studies suggest a relationship between gum disease and other health problems, the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research says further studies are required to confirm a causal relationship 2.
If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.
Heart Disease
Oral bacteria is a serious risk factor for cardiovascular disease, says Robert J. Genco, oral biologist and chief researcher from the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine 3. In a review of 225 veteran outpatients, researchers found cardiovascular disease was more prevalent in patients with advanced periodontal disease than those with good oral health. In another study, the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine cites three specific types of bacteria commonly present in gum disease that were found to increase the risk of heart attack by 200 to 300 percent 3. In a consensus paper jointly prepared by cardiologists and periodontists, the authors call for a joint treatment protocol to treat and educate dental and heart patients about the correlation between the two diseases.
Diabetes
Antibiotics Used for Gum Infection
Learn More
The body’s natural response to infection is inflammation, and the inflammatory response of periodontal disease increases the level of inflammation throughout the entire body, says the American Academy of Periodontology. People with chronic inflammatory diseases such as diabetes are susceptible to infections, which make them more vulnerable to the complications of their disease. Untreated gum disease can raise blood sugar levels in the diabetic and increase the likelihood of additional inflammatory response.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the body attacks healthy tissue and causes chronic inflammation of the joints. Because, in severe cases, RA can deform joints and limit manual dexterity, researchers presumed the high rate of periodontal disease in RA patients was related to limited dental hygiene. In a study that examined the oral health of 57 RA patients, researchers found the occurrence of periodontal disease was eight times greater in RA patients than in a healthy control group. Although oral hygiene is a factor, the study results point to a potential relationship between systemic inflammation and the occurrence of gum disease, according to Dr. Kenneth Kornman, editor of the "Journal of Periodontology," which published the study in June 2008.
- Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the body attacks healthy tissue and causes chronic inflammation of the joints.
- Because, in severe cases, RA can deform joints and limit manual dexterity, researchers presumed the high rate of periodontal disease in RA patients was related to limited dental hygiene.
Related Articles
References
- American Academy of Periodontology: New Health Gums and a Healthy Heart: The Perio-Cardio Connection
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: Periodontal (Gum) Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
- University at Buffalo, School of Dental Medicine: UB Researchers Identify Specific Oral Bacteria Most Likely to Increase Risk of Heart Attack
- Ceccarelli F, Saccucci M, Di carlo G, et al. Periodontitis and rheumatoid arthritis: The same inflammatory mediators?. Mediators Inflamm. 2019;2019:6034546. doi:10.1155/2019/6034546
- National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society. Gum disease.
- Rodríguez-Lozano, B., González-Febles, J., Garnier-Rodríguez, J.L. et al. Association between severity of periodontitis and clinical activity in rheumatoid arthritis patients: a case–control study. Arthritis Res Ther 21, 27 (2019). doi:10.1186/s13075-019-1808-z
- Liccardo D, Cannavo A, Spagnuolo G, et al. Periodontal disease: A risk factor for diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Int J Mol Sci. 2019;20(6):1414. Published 2019 Mar 20. doi:10.3390/ijms20061414
- Kazancioğlu R. Risk factors for chronic kidney disease: an update. Kidney Int Suppl (2011). 2013;3(4):368-371. doi:10.1038/kisup.2013.79
- Zhao X, Liu Z, Shu D, et al. Association of periodontitis with rheumatoid arthritis and the effect of non-surgical periodontal treatment on disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Med Sci Monit. 2018;24:5802–5810. Published 2018 Aug 20. doi:10.12659/MSM.909117
Writer Bio
Susan Brassard writes about natural health-related topics, complementary and alternative medicine and issues relative to a holistic approach to the aging process. Following a career in business and finance, she obtained a Master of Arts in gerontology and several certifications in energy therapies. She is the author of a workbook and resource guide for older adults.