If you consider obesity and gum disease, you might naturally assume that the eating habits that contribute to one could lead to or exacerbate the other. You would be correct, but research suggests there may be an even more profound link between being overweight and developing gum disease. As part of our dedication to your oral and overall health, Astoria dentist, Dr. Jeffrey Leibowitz, explores this connection and what it may mean for your risk of developing damaging dental diseases.
What is Gum Disease?
While gum disease does not directly attack your tooth’s structure, it remains the number one cause of adult tooth loss in America and is typically a result of poor oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing your teeth is essential for controlling the bacterial buildup known as plaque. When this sticky biofilm accumulates along your gum line, some of the germs can manipulate your immune system, causing excessive inflammation in your gum tissue and paving the way for the onset of gum disease. Once it takes a hold, the disease works to destroy your gums and jawbone, deteriorating the supporting structures of your teeth.
A Harmful Mechanism of Obesity
The suspected link between obesity and gum disease involves an excessive amount of proteins that are produced by the bodies of obese people. These proteins, called “cytokines,” possess inflammatory properties that can injure your gum tissue and reduce the flow of blood to your gums, exacerbating the development of gum disease and other oral health issues. As research continues, scientists also suspect gum disease and its microbial mechanisms of contributing to other systemic illnesses, including diabetes, respiratory infections, and heart disease, among many others.
Maintain Good Oral Health with Your Astoria Dentist
To learn more about the importance of maintaining a clean mouth, or to schedule a dental consultation with Dr. Leibowitz, contact your Astoria dentist by calling (718) 728-8320. Located in the 11106 area, we proudly serve patients from Astoria, Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the surrounding communities.
