The Long-Term Consequences of Periodontal Disease

By Tracy Tranchitella, N.D.

Periodontal diseases are mainly the result of infections and inflammation of the gums and bone that surround and support the teeth. If left untreated, infections and inflammation can lead to loss of bone that is needed to hold our teeth in place. Gum recession tends to occur with bone loss leaving more of the tooth exposed which can result in gumline decay and tooth sensitivity. If the gum loss is extreme, periodontal surgery to replace gum tissue may be necessary.

Gingivitis is the mildest form of periodontal disease. It causes the gums to become red, swollen, and bleed easily. There is usually no obvious discomfort at this stage and the condition may only be discovered during a regular dental exam. Gingivitis can be easily reversed with a good dental hygiene program and more frequent dental cleanings.

If gingivitis is not addressed, the condition may advance to periodontitis. Over time, plaque can spread and grow below the gumline. Plaque is a biofilm that serves as a reservoir and protected environment in which bacteria can multiply. Toxins produced by the bacteria in plaque irritate the gums and stimulate a chronic inflammatory response leading to a breakdown of the tissues and bone that support the teeth. The gums can eventually separate from the teeth, forming pockets between the teeth and gums that can become infected and promote more inflammation. As the disease progresses, the pockets deepen, and more gum tissue and bone are destroyed. Eventually, teeth can become loose and may fall out or need to be removed.

While we are not a dental practice, the health of the mouth can have affects elsewhere in the body. Oral infections can contribute to cardiovascular disease, bacterial pneumonia, and type II diabetes. Bacteria from the oral cavity can spread to the lungs and heart by entering systemic circulation. Most oral bacteria are classified as gram negative and high levels have a strong association with the development of type II diabetes and metabolic issues. Gut health may also suffer from periodontal disease as the mouth is the beginning of the digestive tract. While much of what we swallow in terms of pathogens can be destroyed in the acidic environment of the stomach, low stomach acid may be an issue for those with H. pylori infection, gastritis, and aging. Inflammation and excessive oral bacteria can be easy to address with more attention to dental hygiene and more frequent cleanings. Addressing this problem early with antimicrobial products, daily use of an oral irrigation device (Water Pik, Water Flosser) and a good electric toothbrush that has a small round head to get into tight corners, can help to reduce inflammation, bacteria and painful gums while supporting bone health and preserving your teeth.

Herbal products can be very helpful in reducing bacteria and inflammation. BioBotanical Research is well-known for Biocidin, an herbal formulation that has potent effects against biofilms and bacteria. The capsules and liquid are used extensively throughout the world of natural and alternative medicine to effectively treat gut infections. BioBotanical Research has also formulated two excellent dental products that contain Biocidin – Dentalcidin Broad-Spectrum Toothpaste and Dentalcidin Liposomal Oral Care. We have found these products to be very effective in the treatment of gingivitis and the more advanced periodontitis.

In addition to reducing bacteria and inflammation, supporting a healthy oral microbiome with Florassist Oral Hygiene from Life Extension Foundation provides a complete program to restore gum health, and prevent bone, and tooth loss.

You can access this protocol from Fullscript by clicking HERE. All products from Fullscript are 10% off and shipping is free for orders over $50.