Gum disease is a result of an overrun immune system responding to bacterial overload. Severe periodontal disease is called periodontitis, and carries unpleasant symptoms such as bleeding gum tissues, tooth decay, tooth loss, and diminished bone density. Incidence of periodontal infection increases as you get older. Many people accept that dental work like root canal procedures, tooth extractions, and dental implants are a normal part of the aging process. The Riverside dentists at Riverside Dental Group would like to tell you more about a study on the relationship between gum disease and aging.

Gum Disease Study Details

A scientific research study from Queen Mary, university of London, was published in the journal Nature Immunology. The data shows that a drop in a chemical called Del-1 is associated with deterioration of gum tissues. The research team studied the Del-1 levels in various ages of mice. Mice without any Del-1 in their bodies exhibited elevated bone loss and high levels of white blood cells in their gingival tissues. When those same rodents were treated with Del-1, their white blood cell count dropped, and periodontal disease and bone loss ceased. Researchers agree that a better understanding of Del-1 can assist with prevention and treatment of periodontal infection in the future.

Maintaining your Healthy Smile

Inflammatory diseases become more common as people age. Gum disease falls under the inflammation umbrella. Puffy, swollen gums might seem like a minor annoyance, but true periodontitis is dangerous in an elderly person with a compromised immune system. At the advanced stages of gum disease, periodontal pockets form between the inner layer of gum tissue and the jawbone. These pockets can fill with food particles which will eventually end up severely infested with germs. When meticulous oral hygiene becomes more difficult for the elderly, an unfortunate cycle of gum disease and tooth decay is more likely to occur. Infection then spreads to other parts of the body, becoming life threatening if ignored.

Visit your Riverside Dentists

If you are due for a dental checkup or cleaning, or you have any concerns, contact our 92506 dentist office at (951) 369-1001. We serve patients throughout Riverside County.