You probably know that regular teeth cleanings are an integral component of oral health. However, did you also know that certain dental conditions can impact other areas of your body? For instance, untreated gum disease is associated with the following ailments in surprising ways. 

What Medical Conditions Are Associated With Gum Disease?

1. Diabetes

Diabetes causes problems with healing throughout the body. As a result, people with this chronic health condition often have a greater risk of developing gum disease. Additionally, it can be harder to treat gum disease with diabetes, which illustrates the necessity of regular teeth cleanings. 

2. Heart Disease

The link between gum disease and heart disease is also surprising. Some studies have shown that people with both conditions have often needed fewer treatments for heart disease when their periodontal disease was sufficiently handled. Research also shows that the existence of gum disease increases a person’s heart disease risk.

3. Cognitive Dysfunction

Everyone wants to retain their full cognitive faculties for life. Caring for your teeth might benefit you in this respect, at least according to research on the impact of poor oral health on cognition. Along with immediate effects, gum disease may also increase your dementia risk later in life. 

4. Cancer

While further research is needed to establish the exact link, gum disease is also thought to increase the rates of certain types of cancer. Studies conducted by the University of Helsinki show that the same bacteria that cause gum disease may also be to blame for pancreatic cancer. 

In Lincoln, NE, Fallbrook Family Dentistry provides a wide range of treatments for symptoms of periodontal disease. Deep cleaning the area of the teeth under the gums prevents plaque from clinging to teeth. Laser gum surgery is an option in more advanced cases, particularly when food debris can easily become trapped under teeth. Call (402) 467-0007 to schedule a teeth cleaning today, or visit the website for more information on gum disease treatment.