How gum dis-ease puts the immune system at risk

Conversations about oral health typically revolve around teeth, given the universal appreciation for a bright smile. Yet gum health is at least as important – if not crucial – for maintaining overall oral well-being. Experts agree that healthy gums are a vital contributor to overall well-being. Moreover, gum dis-ease can seriously affect the immune system, increasing the risk of serious health conditions. Meanwhile, early gum dis-ease symptoms are often overlooked.

What is gum dis-ease?

Gum dis-ease, or periodontal dis-ease, unfolds as an inflammatory condition. It is primarily caused by the accumulation of plaque on teeth. Our mouths host billions of harmless bacteria which can get trapped within tooth plaque. When they do, they can cause infections, starting with gingivitis (gum inflammation) and potentially escalating to periodontitis, where the gum and bone separate to form pockets that become breeding grounds for infections.

Signs and symptoms of gingivitis

Swollen gums
Bleeding gums
Redness or discoloration of the gums
Tender or sensitive gums
Bad breath (halitosis)
Receding gums
Changes in the way teeth fit together when biting
Mild to moderate discomfort or pain in the gums

How gum inflammation affects the immune system

Gum inflammation and gum dis-ease can lead to the breakdown of bone and connective tissue, culminating in tooth loss. But beyond affecting dental health, periodontitis also compromises the immune system.

Pathogenic bacteria that get stuck underneath tooth plaque release toxins into the bloodstream, triggering the liver to produce C-reactive proteins (CRP). An increase in CRP levels leads to a state of chronic, low-grade inflammation throughout the body, leaving it in a perpetual state of readiness to combat infection. If left untreated, gum dis-ease prompts the body to adapt to this heightened inflammatory state, causing the immune system to become less responsive.

Health conditions linked to gum dis-ease

Gum dis-ease, particularly in its advanced stages like periodontitis, has even been linked to various health conditions including:

Cardiovascular disease: periodontitis has been associated with an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
Diabetes: gum dis-ease can make it harder for people with diabetes to control their blood sugar levels.
Respiratory disease: the bacteria in the mouth may be aspirated into the lungs, potentially leading to respiratory infections, pneumonia, or exacerbating existing lung conditions.
Rheumatoid arthritis: there is evidence suggesting a link between gum dis-ease and rheumatoid arthritis, with both conditions involving inflammation.
Osteoporosis: periodontal bone loss has been tied to osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weakened and brittle bones.
Metabolic syndrome: there is some evidence linking gum dis-ease to metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.
Cancer: research by Harvard Medical School has suggested associations between gum dis-ease and specific cancers, such as esophageal and gastric cancers.

How to prevent gum dis-ease

For biofeedback practitioners, monitoring clients’ gums is recommended as there is an established link between gum dis-ease and weakened immunity. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), each tooth in the mouth is interconnected with a specific organ and its function. Therefore, when there is dis-ease or imbalance in the mouth, it can affect different areas of the body, leading to disharmony.

Advice for clients may include consistent oral care, including brushing teeth twice daily, regular flossing, and using an antiseptic mouthwash. A balanced diet with limited sugary snacks, avoiding tobacco, and moderating alcohol intake contribute to gum health as well.