Periodontitis and Obesity: Is There a Link?

periodontitis and obesity

For many years, obesity has been associated with many serious health problems, like diabetes, cardiovascular (hypertension, high cholesterol, heart disease, etc.), musculoskeletal (arthritis, gout, brittle bones, etc.), and digestive diseases, and many more. But recent studies show a link between periodontitis and obesity. For more information about how periodontitis might be dangerous for your health, read more at https://dwdentistkellyville.com.au/gum. How are these two related? Let us all find out.

What are they?

Obesity is a serious health condition characterized by an excessive increase in body fat. It is not just a physical problem; it is, more importantly, a health risk that may threaten a patient’s life. Periodontitis, on the other hand, is more commonly called gum disease or gingivitis. It happens when the gums surrounding the teeth and the bones holding the teeth become infected by bacteria. If left untreated, it may lead to bone or tooth loss, and if the bacteria reach the bloodstream, it may spread the infection throughout the body, risking one’s life. Knowing that periodontitis and obesity are, how are they linked together?

How are they related?

periodontitis and obesitySince obesity has been known to cause inflammatory diseases, it may also affect the patient’s risk in developing periodontitis. According to recent studies, obese patients (having a BMI of ≥30 kg/m2) double their chances of developing periodontitis, and severely or morbidly obese patients (having a BMI of ≥35 kg/m2) triple theirs. Some dentists and doctors believe that diseases caused by obesity increase a patient’s risk of developing gum disease. For instance, diabetic patients who are obese will more likely have gingivitis.

Although a lot of other health-related conditions should be considered, patient awareness about this issue is really important. Discuss with your doctor and your reliable Carindale Family Dentist team in Mt Gravatt on how this link can be avoided to ensure your overall health and wellness.

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