Gum Disease Related to the Flu…

Recent studies have discovered the direct relationship between our total body health and the health of our gums. If the gums are not healthy, the immune system kicks into gear and the inflammatory process begins.  This inflammatory process causes “pus and bleeding” under the gum tissue which causes the body to react to the tooth and gum in a negative way.  Basically, the inflammatory cells cause tissue destruction and over time bone-loss and tissue-loss occur around the teeth.

I recently ran across an article that discusses the link between gum disease (periodontal disease) and catching the flu virus.  Interestingly, the influenza virus causes the same inflammatory process that occurs with cardiovascular inflammation.  Meaning that when patients have active gum infection, the infection goes directly into the bloodstream and attaches to the blood vessel walls.  When the influenza virus is introduced to the body with this type of inflammation, its onset can be more severe and longer lasting.
The key to decreasing your chance of having a more severe reaction to the influenza virus or contracting the virus is to have healthy gum tissue.  When the gums are healthy your heart is also healthier.  Our Riverside Cosmetic Dental Office is dedicated to your health.  Please visit our office to be sure that your gums, heart, and total body are in good health (951)686-3666.