Can Gum Disease Spread to Other Parts of the Body?

Reviewed by Dr. Kerri Font, DDS

Can Gum Disease Spread to Other Parts of the Body?

Reading time: four minutes.

The bacteria that cause gum disease doesn’t just stay in your mouth.

When left untreated, it can cause chronic inflammation that affects your entire body. That’s why understanding how periodontal disease spreads is key to protecting more than just your smile and maintaining overall health.

In this blog, you will learn:

  • How periodontal disease begins and progresses
  • Whether gum disease can spread through the body
  • Which health conditions are linked to periodontal disease
  • How to protect your mouth and overall health

Table of Contents

What Is Periodontal Disease and How Does It Start?

Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is a bacterial infection that attacks the gum tissue, tooth roots, and bone around your teeth. It starts with plaque buildup on the tooth surface and below the gumline.

If not removed, this leads to irritation, inflammation, and eventually the breakdown of the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth.

  • Early stage (gingivitis): Gums become red, swollen, and bleed easily. This earliest stage is reversible with good oral hygiene practices and professional cleanings.
  • Advanced stage (periodontitis): The infection spreads deeper into the gum pockets, causing bone loss, gum recession, loose teeth, and eventual tooth loss. This form of periodontal disease often requires nonsurgical treatments like scaling and root planing to control the damage.

Can Periodontal Disease Affect Other Parts of the Body?

Yes, and this is what makes untreated gum disease more serious than most people think. 

The same oral bacteria responsible for chronic periodontitis can enter your bloodstream and travel to other organs. This can trigger inflammation and contribute to systemic diseases far beyond your mouth.

Here’s how gum disease can spread systemically:

  • Bacteria enter the bloodstream: Through bleeding gums, periodontal pockets, and inflamed soft tissue
  • Body reacts with inflammation: Which can worsen existing health conditions
  • Weakened immune response: Especially in patients with diabetes or chronic medical conditions

Health Conditions Linked to Periodontal Disease

Research shows strong connections between periodontal disease and several systemic health problems:

  • Heart disease and coronary artery disease: Inflammation caused by periodontal disease can contribute to clogged arteries, damaged blood vessels, and heart attack risk.
  • Diabetes: Gum disease makes blood sugar levels harder to control, and high blood sugar feeds bacterial infection.
  • Stroke: Oral bacteria may increase the risk of clot-related strokes.
  • Respiratory diseases: Inhaling bacteria from infected gums may lead to lung infections and complications.
  • Pregnancy complications: Gum disease is linked to preterm birth and low birth weight.
  • Chronic kidney disease: Ongoing oral infection can impact kidney function over time.

If you have a family history or personal risk factors for these conditions, it is very important that you tell your dentist and treat periodontal disease in the early stages. 

How to Stop the Spread of Gum Disease

The good news is that periodontal disease is preventable and treatable, especially when caught early. Here’s how to keep it from spreading and protect your systemic health:

  • Brush and floss daily
  • Get regular dental cleanings
  • Don’t ignore signs of periodontal disease
  • Treat early stages of gum disease
  • Follow your treatment plan

Partner With Highlands Ranch Periodontics & Implant Center

Your mouth is the gateway to your body and gum health is essential to long-term wellness. If you have been told you have periodontal disease, don’t put off seeking treatment.

To book an appointment at our periodontal clinic in Highlands Ranch, CO, call (303) 683-1144 or visit us at 9090 S Ridgeline Blvd. #225, Highlands Ranch, CO 80129.

FAQs

Can periodontal disease affect autoimmune conditions?

Yes, the chronic inflammation caused by gum disease may overstimulate your immune system and worsen autoimmune responses, including conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.

How does periodontal disease impact blood sugar control?

Gum disease makes it more difficult to manage blood sugar levels, especially in people with diabetes. The bacterial infection and inflammation reduce insulin sensitivity and increase blood sugar, creating a cycle that worsens both conditions.

What body parts are affected by periodontal disease?

Gum disease can impact the heart, brain, lungs, kidneys, and even cause complications during pregnancy. Once bacteria from the gums enter the bloodstream, it can trigger widespread inflammatory diseases.

Categories: Periodontics