Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States. Treating your perio disease could help minimize your risk of developing COPD or respiratory infections such as bacterial pneumonia and bronchitis.
The bacteria found in patients with perio disease has a great impact on the body’s ability to fight off respiratory pathogens. This bacteria hinders your ability to fight off disease causing bacteria that you inhale and has even been found to promote the growth of such bacteria and negatively affect the condition of your lungs. Maintaining a healthy oral cavity through regular dental visits and treating your gum disease is essential to maintaining the health of your lungs.
How exactly are my lungs affected?
The bacteria found in the plaque present in gum disease has a significant impact on how your body responds to pathogens that enter your system through the air you breathe. The dangers your lungs face when this occurs include:
- Increased production of salivary enzymes, which promotes bacterial colonization
- Increased adhesion of bacteria to mucous membranes
- Increased ability of bacteria to adhere to, and damage, the lining of the lungs
Managing your perio disease and practicing good oral hygiene can protect you from respiratory infections that result from these changes.
How Excellence in Dentistry Can Help
Scheduling regular visits with Excellence in Dentistry can help ensure that the condition of your mouth does not put you at an increased risk of developing a respiratory infection. Our team is dedicated to the health of our patients and we are happy to discuss your concerns and help you lead a healthier life. Don’t let perio disease put your lungs in danger.