How Your Weight and Your Gums are Connected

Obesity is well known to be linked to several other serious health issues, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, heart attacks and more. However, many people do not realize that there is a link between your weight and your gum health. Those individuals who are overweight are at a greater risk of developing gum disease.

 

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is an oral bacterial infection that attacks your gums. As it progresses, bacteria fall under inflamed gum tissue and attack teeth and bone. Your teeth can become loose, and even fall out. On top of this, bacteria can enter the blood stream and lead to other health issues, including heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

How Does Obesity Affect Gum Disease?

Individuals who are overweight are considered at a higher risk of developing chronic inflammatory conditions. Fat cells produce chemical signals and hormones, some of which increase your body’s overall inflammatory response.

As a result, overweight individuals are twice as likely to develop gum disease, while those who are obese are three times as likely. And, those who are overweight often have restricted blood flow, which restricts the transportation of essential vitamins and nutrients throughout your body, including your gums, leaving them more susceptible to attack.

Treatment and Prevention

Periodontal treatment stops gum disease in its track, and allows your gums to heal. If necessary, surgery may be required to restore bone structure and receded gum tissue.

And taking the right steps to prevent gum disease from recurring (or from occurring in the first place) is essential for your overall health. This can be done with twice daily brushing, daily flossing and regular visits to your dentist.

Being overweight greatly increases your risk of developing gum disease. Taking proper preventative measures – brushing, flossing, visits to the dentist – are crucial. Taking steps to lower your weight can help. Contact our office, as well as your doctor, to learn more.

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