A research study from Norway has confirmed a link between psoriasis and gum disease. The study found that people with psoriasis had an increased likelihood of also having periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease. Loss of the alveolar bone, the bone that forms the tooth socket, also occurs when a person has psoriasis. Why might this be the case? “Both diseases can be characterized by exaggerated immune response,” explained one of the researchers who worked on this study.
This is not the only research study to find a link between psoriasis and gum disease. Other research has revealed that patients with gum disease are 1.5 times more likely to develop psoriasis than people with healthy gum tissue, says the National Psoriasis Foundation. For example, a 2013 article published in the medical journal Inflammation found that people with psoriatic arthritis were more likely to have gum problems and inflammation.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is caused by an over-active immune system, leading to skin inflammation and rapid skin cell reproduction. The disease causes old skin cells to be pushed to the outermost surface of the skin before they are ready to be shed, resulting in red, patchy skin that itches. What should patients with this chronic inflammatory disease do about their dental health? “Some experts say that, based on preliminary studies showing an association between psoriasis and gum disease, patients with psoriasis should be closely followed by a dentist for screening and possible early treatment,” said Chiesa Fuxench, a dermatologist at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine in Philadelphia.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Therefore, what are the symptoms of gum disease and how do you prevent it? Here are some common symptoms:
- Receding gums,
- Bleeding and painful gums,
- Loose teeth,
- Bad breath.
How can you prevent gum disease? Here are the most basic steps that are generally successful:
- Floss every day between all teeth,
- Brush at least twice a day,
- See the Placerville Dental Group twice a year for cleanings and exams.
The evidence keeps mounting that your oral health is strongly connected to your overall health and well being. If you experience symptoms of gum disease, contact the our local Placerville dental professionals for treatment before it’s too late!
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