Diabetes: People with diabetes are two to three times more likely to develop gum disease. A mouth full of plaque and tartar can increase levels of glucose in the blood stream of diabetics.
Heart Disease: A patient with periodontal disease is twice as likely to develop heart disease. Gum disease increases inflammation in the body.
Pneumonia: Residents in skilled nursing facilities who under-go regular preventative dental cleanings have less risk of developing pneumonia.
Xerostomia: Dry mouth is a side effect of more than 400 medications. Without adequate saliva flow, bacteria and plaque accumulate in the mouth making a person more prone to gum disease.
Oral Cancer, Stroke and Respiratory Disease all have been linked to poor oral health.
