A healthy smile goes far beyond bright teeth; it’s a window into your overall well-being. Alexandra Brummerhop, DMD, MS, of Pearl Periodontics, explains how caring for your gums supports more than just your mouth. From heart health to immune function to aging well, she explains why periodontal care is essential to keeping your whole body healthy.
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(Responses edited for length and clarity.)
Let’s start with the basics. What does a periodontist do, and how is it distinct from a dentist?
While your general dentist helps you maintain overall oral health through cleanings, fillings, and preventive care, a periodontist is a dental specialist focused on the health of your gums and the structures that support your teeth. Construction is a great analogy. A builder would not build a house on an unstable foundation, because the structure could shift and fall apart. Rather, they would create a strong, even foundation prior to building, so the structure can withstand use and wear over time. This same concept applies to your mouth; we are the foundation experts.
At Pearl Periodontics, we often collaborate with your general dentist and other specialists to restore and preserve the foundation of your smile. Whether that means treating gum infections, rebuilding lost bone, covering tooth recession, or performing precise implant surgery, our role is to protect the stability and longevity of your teeth so your dentist can continue keeping your smile healthy and beautiful for years to come.
Why is periodontal health important?
Healthy gums are vital for a strong, lasting smile. They protect your teeth and bone while keeping harmful bacteria out. If the plaque is left on the teeth, it will creep down the root and harden, making it challenging to clean with a toothbrush and floss alone. The hardened plaque (called “calculus”) will cause the bone to deteriorate. When gum health declines, it can lead to tooth loss and has been linked to broader health concerns, such as heart disease and diabetes.
Protecting your gums protects your overall health and quality of life.
How does periodontal health relate to the rest of our body?
Oral and overall health are significantly connected. Recent studies have strengthened the connection between gum disease and heart health. Researchers now understand that the inflammation caused by periodontal disease can release bacteria and inflammatory markers into the bloodstream, contributing to arterial plaque buildup and increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. In fact, several large reviews have shown that people with gum disease are significantly more likely to experience cardiovascular events. Maintaining healthy gums and reducing oral inflammation are now recognized as important steps in supporting long-term heart health.
Oral health affects the heart, blood sugar control, and even immune function. Healthy gums help limit harmful bacteria and reduce chronic inflammation, both of which play key roles in maintaining balance throughout the body. Caring for your oral health isn’t just about your smile; it’s an important part of protecting your overall well-being.
Are there other conditions correlated with periodontitis?
Diabetes can significantly impact oral health. The condition can increase levels of harmful bacteria, leading to cavities and gum disease. It can often be more severe and take longer to heal if you have diabetes. Research has shown that patients who receive scaling and root planing have improved their HbA1c levels.
Poor oral health is also connected with Alzheimer's Disease. Oral bacteria produce toxins that can damage brain cells and promote amyloid plaques in the brain. Periodontal disease can also cause oxidative stress, which is linked to cognitive aging.
Periodontal disease during pregnancy has been shown to lead to low birth weight in newborns. The bacteria can travel through the bloodstream and affect fetal development, and it can also lead to premature labor.
Are there signs that indicate we may have periodontal problems on the horizon?
Some of the most common signs to watch for include:
- Bleeding or swollen gums. This is often the first sign of inflammation or infection.
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth. These can indicate bacterial buildup below the gumline or dental infection.
- Gum recession or tooth sensitivity. This can expose roots and signal early bone loss.
- Tooth movement or shifting. Watch for noticeable tooth movement in a short time or pain when chewing.
Finally, how can we maintain optimal periodontal health?
First off, be consistent with daily hygiene care. Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush (electric or manual) and clean between teeth daily with floss or interdental brushes. You floss the teeth you want to keep.
Next, keep up with professional cleanings. Regular visits to your dentist or periodontist help remove buildup that can’t be reached or seen at home and can catch early signs of gum disease.
Watch for early changes. Don’t ignore bleeding gums, bad breath, gum recession, and tooth sensitivity. Early treatment can prevent bigger problems later.
Eat a balanced diet. Limit sugar, choose foods rich in vitamins and minerals, and drink plenty of water to support healthy gums and reduce inflammation. Avoid tobacco and vapes.
Be your own advocate. Partner with your healthcare providers, ask questions, and stay informed about your oral health. The more you understand your care, the more empowered you’ll be to make the best decisions for you.
Long-lasting oral health depends on a strong partnership between patients, general dentists, and trusted specialists when advanced treatment or dental implants are needed. At Pearl Periodontics, we’re committed to sharing knowledge and advancing understanding among our colleagues, patients, and the broader community. We believe lasting trust comes from clear communication within this partnership, shared understanding, and the exceptional results that follow.
Protecting your gums protects your overall health and quality of life.