Periodontal Disease and Respiratory Disease

Recent research studies have established a connection between periodontal disease (also known as periodontitis and gum disease) and respiratory diseases. It has been concluded that periodontal disease can worsen conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and may even play a role in contracting pneumonia, bronchitis, and emphysema.

Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that begins with a bacterial infection. The bacteria found in plaque colonize the gingival tissue, triggering an inflammatory response that leads to the destruction of gum and bone tissue. As the disease progresses, the gums recede, causing the teeth to appear longer. If left untreated, the erosion of bone tissue weakens the tooth’s foundation, resulting in loose, shifting, or complete tooth loss.

Various respiratory diseases have been linked to periodontal disease, with pneumonia, COPD, and bronchitis being the most common. Bacterial respiratory infections usually occur when fine droplets from the mouth are inhaled into the lungs. COPD is a serious condition and a leading cause of death, necessitating prompt attention.

Reasons for the Connection

Although the link between respiratory disease and periodontal disease may seem unlikely, there is substantial evidence supporting it. Here are some reasons for the association:

1. Bacterial spread: The specific type of oral bacteria causing periodontal disease can easily be drawn into the lower respiratory tract. Once these bacteria colonize the lungs, they can cause pneumonia and exacerbate conditions like COPD.

2. Low immunity: Chronic respiratory problems are often associated with weakened immunity, allowing oral bacteria to thrive above and below the gum line without being effectively combated by the immune system. This not only accelerates the progression of periodontal disease but also increases the risk of developing emphysema, pneumonia, and COPD.

3. Modifiable factors: Smoking, a leading cause of COPD and other respiratory conditions, also damages the gums and compromises oral health. Smoking slows healing, deepens gum pockets, and accelerates attachment loss. While smoking is not the sole cause of periodontal disease, it is an important factor to avoid.

4. Inflammation: Periodontal disease causes inflammation and irritation of oral tissue, which could contribute to inflammation of the lining in the lungs, restricting airflow.

Diagnosis and Treatment

When both respiratory disease and periodontal disease are diagnosed in an individual, it is essential for the dentist and doctor to collaborate to manage both conditions effectively. Treatment options range from non-surgical to surgical, depending on the specific condition of the teeth, gums, and jaw.

The dentist can assess the extent of inflammation and tissue loss and provide appropriate treatment for the bacterial infection. Scaling procedures remove debris from the pockets, while root planing smooths the tooth root to eliminate remaining bacteria. Antibiotics are often applied to the pockets after cleaning to promote healing and prevent reinfection.

Controlling periodontal disease offers dual benefits. It reduces oral discomfort and improves gum health while also reducing the frequency of unpleasant respiratory infections associated with COPD and other respiratory problems.