Studies have linked cardiovascular disease and the loss of bone support in the jaw due to periodontal disease. This direct correlation was identified in a systemic review where the numbers of existing and new cases of coronary heart disease are significantly increased in periodontal disease.

It has been indicated that there is a link between oral hygiene and respiratory health, particularly for those at higher risk being the elderly. The evidence in a study showed that by improving oral hygiene and frequent professional oral health care, there was a reduction in the progression and occurrence of respiratory disease in elderly patients.

An important link to consider with the increased risk of other chronic diseases and conditions due to viruses is the implications of Epstein-Barr Virus and cytomegalovirus and their correlation with periodontitis and poor oral health outcomes. Multiple studies have indicated that periodontitis is frequently present in those suffering from these chronic viruses, and that it is also more likely that those with deeper recession pockets within the gums carry the two discussed viruses as well.

Individuals with diabetes are more likely to have periodontal disease than those without diabetes. This may be because diabetics are more susceptible to infection anywhere in the body, and possibly due to previous or current dietary influence for those with type 2 diabetes that is poorly managed. Periodontal disease is often considered the ‘sixth complication’ of diabetes so it needs to be considered greatly in the treatment of those with diabetes. Of great concern, the presence of periodontal disease may make it more difficult for diabetics to control their blood sugar as severe periodontal disease can increase blood sugar levels.

Whilst there is a strong link between chronic kidney disease and poor oral health, the outcomes of improving oral health to see if this approach reduces the complications of chronic kidney disease is yet to be shown. Changes in the mouth of those with chronic kidney disease may contribute to increased health complications and death rates due to inflammation, infections, protein-energy wasting, and complications from hardening of the arteries.

A recent study has shown that patients with poor oral hygiene are more likely to have H. pylori, both on their teeth, and within their stomach. This study indicates that the mouth may be another area within the body for H. pylori to proliferate, and potentially a source of transmission or reinfection. This highlights the need to address oral health and oral hygiene to effectively treat this bacteria that is a common issue.

Oral health is a common link…Inflammation from plaques may trigger an autoimmune response within the body.

Hashimoto Disease

Periodontitis is often found in individuals with Hashimoto’s disease. An article highlights the link between adverse outcomes for oral health and both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Having Hashimoto’s and unmanaged oral health can be linked to burning mouth syndrome, Sjogrens syndrome, systemic lupus and maxillary and mandibular osteoporosis.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis can be a debilitating and painful condition which may lead to reduced ability to physically brush the teeth, in some instances, the jaw may even be implicated in the condition. A common link with the above discussed autoimmune conditions is Sjogrens syndrome, RA is no different and patients with this disease are also at higher risk of Sjogrens syndrome.

The unique hormone balance of a women’s unique hormonal profile makes them more susceptible to oral health issues and inflammation caused by periodontal disease. It is important that good oral health and hygiene is a matter of self care priority for women.

It is well known and studied that infection with bacteria from periodontal disease in the mouth may impact the health of a pregnant woman which can lead to low birth-weight and premature labour. This significant correlation was first shown in a 1996 study and to date, the consensus of available findings from a number of studies strongly supports this original finding. Pre-eclampsia, which is high blood pressure in pregnancy, is one of the significant problems in pregnancy and complicates 8 – 10% of pregnancies. It can adversely impact the unborn baby as well as the mother, and may result in premature birth and risk of intervention. It should be highlighted that an association between periodontal disease and pre-eclampsia have also been found.