Periodontitis & Well Being

Your well-being can easily become affected by the symptoms of Periodontitis, such as swollen gums, loose teeth and bad breath. It can affect physical, social and psychological aspects of your quality of life.

In addition to pain, there are other factors that combine to negatively influence quality of life. For example, a decrease in self-confidence and a feeling of shame associated with Periodontitis.

The loss of teeth automatically lowers one’s quality of life. Losing teeth causes a direct effect on social well-being and aesthetic appearance. People may limit activities such as laughing in public, establishing relationships, eating and it can affect speaking.

Excessive stress is associated with Periodontitis both directly and indirectly.

Indirectly stress can cause an unbalanced lifestyle associated with higher alcohol and tobacco consumption, sleep deprivation and poor oral hygiene. Directly stress elevates levels of cortisol and epinephrine, which can lead to greater inflammation.

Periodontitis and systemic diseases. There has been a long standing connection between oral health and systemic diseases. This relationship relates to the passage of bacteria from the oral cavity into the bloodstream causing an increase in systemic inflammation and so is associated with Diabetes, Heart Disease and Pregnancy.

Periodontitis and nutrition. Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease of the gums. Eating a balanced diet can boost our immune system in the prevention of chronic diseases such as Periodontitis. Treatment of Periodontitis should not only focus on removing bacteria, but also on improving our immune system through stopping smoking, reducing stress and a healthy diet.