Gum Disease Is Associated with Digestive Disorders

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gum diseaseGum disease, also called periodontal disease, is an inflammatory condition that is the leading cause of tooth loss. It affects 46% of all adults in the U.S. aged 30 and older. Approximately nine percent of adults have severe gum disease, which can lead to many other health conditions. The potential for gum disease increases in people who have diabetes, use tobacco, or have poor oral hygiene habits.

Researchers have found a strong link between poor oral health and gum disease and digestive disorders. Oral bacteria can travel directly to the gut after being swallowed. The relationship between the oral microbiome and the gut microbiome is significant.

If you struggle with gum disease or periodontal disease, you can seek treatment from the Babylon gum disease specialists of Babylon Dental Care. Treatment can help diminish your risk of infection and improve your gum health. This, in turn, can help improve your overall health and your quality of life.

Contact us today at (631) 983-6665 to book an appointment for your regularly scheduled cleaning. We have dental care plans and packages to fit all budgets as well as payment options available.

Table Of Contents

    What Is Gum Disease?

    Frequently, the term “gum disease” or “gingivitis” refers to the early stages of periodontal disease. The condition develops after bacteria infect your mouth, which causes inflammation in the gums. When you forget to floss and brush, a sticky film of bacteria and food can form along the gum line.

    This is called plaque, and it gets trapped between the bottom of the tooth and the gum line, where an infection forms. If it is not removed within 72 hours, it can harden into tartar, which makes it more difficult to completely clean your teeth and gums.

    Without consistent proper dental care, this can lead to damaged soft tissue and bone and then tooth loss. Common symptoms of periodontal disease include:

    • Bad breath or a bad taste that won’t go away
    • Swollen or puffy gums
    • Bright red, dusky red, or purplish colored gums
    • Gums that feel tender when touched
    • Pus between your teeth and gums
    • Painful chewing
    • Loose teeth
    • Sensitive teeth
    • Gums that bleed easily and have pulled away from your teeth
    • Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
    • Any change in the fit of partial dentures

    Your Gut Microbiome Is Crucial for Your Health

    Your gut microbiome is filled with bacteria, viruses, and fungi that are essential to your good health. There are approximately 100 trillion microorganisms within the human gut. Researchers now believe that the microbiome is essentially an organ that encodes over 3 million genes and produces thousands of metabolites. In other words, it influences fitness and health characteristics.

    The gut microbiome helps regulate your immune system, weight, heart health, and other aspects of your overall health. You’re first exposed to microbiomes when you’re born and pass through your mother’s birth canal. Some studies have also suggested that babies come in contact with their first microbes while still inside the womb.

    An overgrowth of harmful microbes causes a condition called gut dysbiosis. This can contribute to weight gain and obesity. Other studies have linked your gut microbiome to blood sugar control, cognitive functioning, psychological disorders, and digestive disorders.

    Poor Oral Health Increases Gut Inflammation

    Research has shown that the consequences of poor oral hygiene go well beyond cavities and tooth loss. Oral bacteria can spread throughout the body by initially entering the bloodstream through openings in the gum or being swallowed and entering the gut.

    When oral bacteria move into the gut, it changes the gut microbiome community and negatively impacts your immune defense. Patients who have chronic periodontitis may develop a dysregulation in the gut that leads to gastrointestinal disease.

    Research has also indicated there’s a bidirectional relationship between periodontitis and digestive disorders in which chronic oral or intestinal inflammation can have an impact on the other. Precisely how this happens has remained unclear, but evaluation of the data demonstrates that it does happen.

    Researchers and dentists also agree that gum disease and periodontal disease are linked to a whole list of other health complications including heart problems, respiratory problems, diabetes, cancer, strokes, and birth complications.

    Digestive Disorders That May Be Associated with Poor Oral Health

    Several digestive disorders have been linked to gut dysbiosis, including inflammatory bowel disease. One study published in 2020 evaluated the results of six studies and concluded that individuals with inflammatory bowel disease had a higher rate of suffering from periodontitis. However, the research did not identify the mechanism that linked the two.

    Another study from the University of Michigan found individuals with periodontitis also had a higher incidence of inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis. The study authors hope that this would provide novel treatments for irritable bowel disease since many patients still fail to get relief using medications. This leads to a reduction in quality of life and, ultimately, surgical intervention to control the inflammation.

    Protect Yourself from Gum Disease

    healthy teethIt is vitally important to protect your mouth from gum disease and, by doing so, protect your overall health. The dentists at Babylon Dental Care can help you and your family understand the symptoms and consequences of periodontal disease. We’ll discuss some effective treatments with you that can help you fight against gum disease.

    Fortunately, prevention is as easy as practicing good oral hygiene. Flossing after every brushing can help get rid of trapped food and bacteria. You should also brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes. Everyone should see the dentist twice a year for regular cleaning and inspection. Your dentist can help find gum disease changes early, which makes it easier to treat and regain gum health.

    Contact Babylon Dental Care Today to Protect Your Oral and Gut Health

    Your oral health is related to your gut health, which in turn is related to digestive disorders. Inflammatory bowel diseases can significantly impact your quality of life and create long-term issues with your immune system.

    You can prevent these changes when you practice good oral hygiene and see your dentist twice a year. Our dental team has years of experience treating many different oral conditions. We treat our patients with respect and compassion to make your dental experience the best that it can be.

    To learn more or discuss your options to reduce gum disease and reduce the risk of developing a digestive disorder, call Babylon Dental Care at (631) 983-6665 to schedule your appointment.

    We have lots of new patient offers and a streamlined first dental visit process. Contact us today.

    Testimonials

    babylon

    “Amazing experience getting my teeth cleaned at Babylon Dental Care. Melody is fantastic and provided a top-notch painless service. Highly recommend.”

    Ron S

    babylon

    “Absolutely incredible team. From the very moment you walk in you're greeted with kindness and people who want to help you. When I was asked how everything was I literally told them I was speechless. Having had terrible experiences as a kid with dentistry I wasn't sure if the nice things I've heard and read would live up to my expectation. I'm so glad they met them, and even went above and beyond what I had imagined. They offered me several options (a comfort menu) for things I could ask for to help make the time go by easier and with less anxiety.. all for free! If you have been holding off due to how long it's been and how anxious you might be then take this as your sign to look into coming here. I really truly am so glad I overcame my fear and made my appointment, they are just *that* good”

    Brian K

    babylon

    “Really love this office, they are so kind and non judge mental, I have dealt with so many judge mental dental offices and I have felt totally at ease here. Truly grateful to find them. Dr David is so gentle and for the first time ever I don’t have an anxiety attack coming in to the dentist. The ladies in the front are a pleasure as well, Beth is a breathe of fresh air.”

    Angela P

    babylon

    “I had my teeth cleaned by Melody and she did an incredible job. She is gentle, and caring. My teeth look and feel amazing! I normally hate going to the dentist but now look forward to my cleanings with Melody and this location! Everyone is this office is so kind and sweet from the moment you walk in.”

    Gillian W

    babylon

    “This was my first time at this Dental office. I went in for a cleaning and dental exam. The office is Clean and modern. I felt comfortable and welcomed right from the start. My hygienist 'Melody' was great! I feel that she was very thorough, talked me through everything she was doing and made recommendations for improving my routine at home. My dental exam with Dr. Diamond was just as pleasant. I liked that she also took her time and I didn't feel rushed. All-in-all it was a good experience. The entire team at the clinic displayed a high level of professionalism and made me feel comfortable throughout my visit.”

    Brenda S

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    “Love this office and all staff! From the front desk, to the hygienist, the dentists and the lovely ladies that check you out, it’s a top notch experience. I trust them 100%!”

    Marian P

    babylon

    “Dr. David and the entire staff at Babylon Dental Care are amazing! Every single person who works there is so kind compassionate. I’m a very nervous patient and Dr. David and his assistant Amber made me feel so at ease. I highly recommend Babylon Dental Care especially if you’re an anxious patient!”

    Elisabeth D

    babylon

    “From the moment I walked in it was a great experience. The facility is modern and clean. I was treated extremely well. And I really don't like going to the dentist but I'm actually looking forward to my next visit. Everyone I met was great! Thank you for making me feel comfortable.”

    Tom M

    babylon

    “Everyone in the Patchogue office are wonderful! Kind, caring, and attentive. I have always hated dentists but I am never anxious to come there. I can honestly say I have NEVER felt this at ease. Thank you all for making this a wonderful experience for me. I won’t ever hesitate to go to the dentist again!”

    Susan G

    babylon

    “First visit and everyone was so nice and made the transition to a new dentist seamless! Corinn did a great cleaning and explained everything as she was doing it!”

    Kayleigh P

    babylon

    “I would highly recommend Babylon Dental Care. The Drs and Staff are all very friendly and professional. They take the extra time to explain the procedures which are truly done gently and with care. I saw Dr. Knakal and Dr. Diamond. The lobby is comfortable and the dental work areas are immaculate. Also, I have never had to wait very long before being seen!”

    Regina B

    babylon

    “First time here, never felt so comfortable at the dentist. Super clean and friendly staff. Corrin and Dr. Brown are absolutely wonderful! Very thorough and knowledgeable.”

    Cara P

    babylon

    “This is quite possibly the most impressive Dental office I’ve ever seen. All the staff goes above and beyond to make you feel welcome. The office is so gorgeous through out. I loved my hygienist, she was very knowledgeable and very thorough and informative about being proactive with your hygiene habits. Dr Hsu was amazing. I highly recommend him. Very professional and explains everything he’s doing and that you’re comfortable during the visit. I’m really glad I found this office and my new Dentist.”

    Angel W

    babylon

    “I have been using Babylon Dental Care for almost 10 years. Dr. Brown, Jen, Melody and Michelle are incredible. They are always concerned with the patients well being and health making it a different experience. They treat you like family, not a patient. I use them for dentistry and their silent night therapy. Thank you for taking care of my family. Great job team!”

    Chuck M

    babylon

    “I've been coming here for about a year and a half. I have always had Francesca and she's great. She's always professional, friendly and honest with me. They have a pretty good system with the walkie-talkies too which makes the process more or less pretty smooth. I also really appreciate that they are transparent up front with cost, not many places are like that in my experiences.”

    Scott A

    babylon

    “Professional and courteous staff, every time I come here I’m more than satisfied. Dr Wrann & Dr Knakal are exceptionally good. I would highly recommend Babylon Dental!”

    Nick S

    babylon

    “Very professional staff and the hygienist Melody is amazing. The dentist are very thorough and they explained every little bit of details of your procedure. They make you feel so relaxed and welcoming. I would recommend Babylon Dental Care to anyone.”

    Verona B

    babylon

    “I recently moved approximately 300 miles away, I continue to make the trip back to Babylon Dental Care. My hygienist Paige could not be kinder, friendlier or professional. I have been having issues with bone loss in my jaws and now it's time for implants. Dr. Knakal has been outstanding. I know I am in the best hands. Everyone I have dealt with at BDC from the receptionists to the checkout personnel are awesome! I will be continuing to make the trip for all my dental care.”

    Pete R

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    “Babylon Dental Care is an amazing practice! I had an issue with my teeth and they took me immediately. Their friendly and compassionate staff walked me through each step and in a matter of a week I had that tooth extracted and my flipper ready for every day use! You can’t even tell I have it in! The office is spotless and they even have Netflix! How cool is that! You’re welcomed as soon as you walk in and they made me feel so comfortable. Dr. Golo and Dr. Knakal took such good care of me and I would recommend them to anyone! The office is so convenient and literally across the street from my home so it doesn’t get better than that! Thank you Babylon Dental!”

    Joseph S

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    “I've never had such an amazing experience at a dentist. They are so kind, so caring, so friendly, and really make you feel appreciated and not just like a patient number. I am blown away by the care I received here, and will be recommending them to everyone I know!”

    Jessica C

    babylon

    “I cannot adequately express my appreciation for this practice. Best dental practice ever! Everyone is so kind, caring and respectful. I don't dread going to the dentist anymore. I've had a lot of work done and am extremely pleased. They are very gentle and strive to keep you pain free. Very professional from reception on up. I highly recommend Babylon Dental. Would give them 10 stars if I could!”

    Debra B

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    “Had the zoom whitening treatment and all I can say is wow!!”

    Beth L

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    “At Babylon Dental Care, “care” is given from arrival to check out. I was anxious; it had been a few years since my last filling. From the moment I walked into the exam room, Karen comforted me. She explained the process, answered my questions and talked with me to keep me calm. Dr. Wrann was excellent! I did not have any pain before, during or after the procedure. So happy! Thank you to a truly great team!”

    Kristina F

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    “I went there during covid as my dentist was shut down by the pandemic. They really do everything they can to make you feel good about your experience. Melanie who cleans my teeth as well is wonderful and does a great job everything by the time I leave I don't want to go. Excellent place for dental work. They go above and beyond.”

    Connor L