Here’s a trivia question: How are the gums related to your respiratory system? As odd as it may seem, gum disease may have serious ramifications on mortality, particularly in older individuals according to research published in Experiential Gerontology.
Using more than 1,300 study participants at least age 75 or older, researchers found ties between periodontal (gum) disease and a multitude of respiratory illnesses. The severity of the gum disease correlated with a greater risk of possible issues in the lungs, especially among those that smoked or were obese.
Ongoing inflammation is one of the most common symptoms of gum disease, characterized by red, tender gums. Besides respiratory illnesses, the disease may also be tied to other diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease.
The research once again reinforces just how important it is to take your oral health. To read more about the research, please visit https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0531556519307831.
This update is by Assure a Smile, the longest-tenured holistic dental practice in Miami. Spearheaded by Dr. Theodore “Ted” Herrmann, our top priority is to provide patients with all-encompassing oral health care that safely improves oral health and wellness. By helping patients look and feel their best through a holistic dentistry approach, we strive to empower patients to make informed lifestyle choices that result in strong teeth, healthy gums, beautiful smiles, and optimum vitality. For more information on holistic dental care or to schedule an appointment with a holistic dentist, please visit https://www.assureasmile.com or call 305-274-0047.
