Gum disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth. According to the Canadian Dental Association, gum disease affects one in seven Canadians in their lifetime.
Despite the prevalence, many underestimate its potential to cause severe health issues. Gum disease can range from simple gum inflammation to a significant and ongoing issue, leading to major damage if left unchecked. It's more than just a dental health problem; it's a signifier of poor health practices and can be a gateway to other serious health problems.
One of these serious health problems is obesity. As of 2022, 30% of Ontarians were diagnosed with obesity. Studies have shown that obese individuals have a higher risk of developing gum disease. Obesity can weaken a person’s immune system, impair wound healing and decrease bone metabolism; all of which can make a person susceptible to gum disease.
In this extensive post, we'll venture into the nuanced relationship between obesity and gum disease.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a chronic oral health condition that is defined by an infection within the gum tissues. It’s typically caused by poor brushing and flossing habits that allow plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—to build up on the teeth and harden. Over time, this plaque turns into tartar and leads to inflammation.
There are three stages to periodontal disease. In the early stages, a bacterial infection known as gingivitis causes the gums to bleed, swell, and become inflamed. Without dental treatment, this can lead to the second stage of gum disease: periodontitis. Periodontitis can cause the gums to recede and pull away from the teeth. This can form spaces called pockets that fill with plaque worsening the condition.
Symptoms of gum disease include bad breath, bleeding and/or receding gums, swelling of the gum tissue, tooth sensitivity, pain when chewing, and loose teeth. These can cause severe complications, such as tooth loss and jawbone damage.
How Are Obesity and Gum Disease Linked?
Obesity is a chronic health condition identified by the presence of excessive fat cells and is measured by a person’s total Body Mass Index (BMI). A person with a BMI of 30.0 or higher is considered obese.
The link between obesity and gum disease has been studied over the past 40 years. As obesity has been shown to lead to health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, arthritis and forms of cancer, obesity and periodontal disease share a common thread—inflammation.
Obesity and gum disease are chronic inflammatory conditions, and the fat cells in obese individuals actively secrete inflammatory mediators that can exacerbate an already present gum disease condition.
How Obesity Affects the Severity of Gum Disease
Obesity can lead to a faster progression of gum disease and can impede the outcome of treatments. Studies have shown that a higher BMI, as seen in people dealing with obesity, can increase the risk of developing gum disease.
A study released by the British Dental Journal in 2019 looked at the association between obesity and gum disease. While the initial cause that links these two conditions together is still under investigation, some factors distinctly explain how the treatment of one is associated with the other. A bigger body mass index along with a higher waist circumference and serum lipid levels increases the body’s overall inflammation. This is a significant contribution to the development of gum disease.
A 2021 study published in the Journal of Dental Research confirms these findings and further looks at how inflammation triggers the deterioration of bone tissue. Focusing on two groups of mice over 16weeks, the high-fat group had a greater loss of dental bone and a higher number of osteoclast cells (cells that break down the tissues of the bone).
How to Prevent and Treat Gum Disease
Prevention is key to maintaining good dental health. Gum disease can affect more than just the gumline as it can spread into the bone and lead to deterioration of the jawbone.
Preventing Methods
To prevent gum disease, it’s important to prioritize good oral hygiene. This includes regular brushing and flossing followed by a thorough rinsing of the mouth. Attending dental checkups once every 4 to 6 months can help detect early stages of gum disease.
For those who are struggling with obesity, implementing weight management strategies can not only reduce the risk of gum disease but also improve systemic inflammation, positively influencing overall health. A diet high in sugars, processed foods and unhealthy fats can contribute to gum disease. Instead, individuals should incorporate nutrient-rich foods that support their immune system and overall health for better gum health.
Treatment Options
When gum disease progresses, it demands more comprehensive treatments to avoid further damage and restore oral health. Regular visits to your dental professional for cleanings and checkups are vital. They can detect signs of gum disease early, when it's most treatable, and before serious problems arise.
In some cases, a dentist might recommend antibiotic therapy to help in the healing process, especially in instances of persistent infection. For advanced cases of gum disease, surgical procedures can be necessary to repair and regenerate damaged tissues and bone structures.
Get Expert Guidance at Princeview Dental Clinic in Etobicoke
For comprehensive dental care in Etobicoke, the friendly team at Princeview Dental Group can help! Our dental treatments are based on personalized plans to meet the needs of each patient. As gum disease is a serious condition, we can offer appropriate treatment options and preventive care guidelines.
We provide dental services such as examinations, teeth cleaning, dental implants, crowns, bridges, teeth whitening and other cosmetic dentistry services.
Contact us today if you are experiencing any symptoms of gum disease or have concerns with obesity and your dental health.
