Did you know that your oral health could influence how your brain ages? In this episode, we explore the fascinating connection between gum disease, inflammation, and cognitive decline.

Periodontol. 2024 September ; 95(9): 892–906. doi:10.1002/JPER.23-0551.

In this episode, we explore the critical connections between gum disease, tooth loss, and systemic health conditions. Learn how periodontal disease not only affects oral health but can also contribute to broader medical issues, highlighting the importance of prevention, treatment, and early intervention.

In this episode, we explore the local and systemic mechanisms that connect gum disease to inflammatory comorbidities. Discover how oral health impacts overall health and why managing periodontal disease plays a critical role in preventing broader systemic conditions.

This episode examines the toxic triangle between heavy metals, inflammation, and gum disease. Learn how environmental exposure to metals can fuel inflammation and contribute to periodontal disease, impacting both oral and systemic health.

Du M, Deng K, Cai Q, et al. Mediating role of systemic inflammation in the association between heavy metals exposure and periodontitis risk. J Periodontol. 2024; 95: 502–514. https://doi.org/10.1002/JPER.23-0079

In this episode, we explore how systemic diseases can present with periodontal manifestations, highlighting the critical link between oral and overall health

Jepsen S, Caton JG, et al. Periodontal manifestations of systemic diseases and developmental and acquired conditions: Consensus report of workgroup 3 of the 2017 World Workshop on the Classification of Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases and Conditions. J Periodontol. 2018; 89(Suppl 1): S237–S248. https://doi.org/10.1002/JPER.17-0733

Even after periodontal treatment, residual pockets can silently continue to harbor harmful bacteria, increasing the risk of ongoing bone loss and eventual tooth loss. In this episode, we explore what residual pockets are, why they persist, the hidden dangers they pose, and the best strategies to monitor and manage them. Whether you’re a dental professional or someone interested in maintaining long-term oral health, this episode will give you the insights you need to protect your smile.

Bond JC, Casey SM, McDonough R, McLone SG, Velez M, Heaton B. Validity of individual self-report oral health measures in assessing periodontitis for causal research applications. J Periodontol. 2024 Sep;95(9):892-906. doi: 10.1002/JPER.23-0551. Epub 2024 Jan 10. PMID: 38197131; PMCID: PMC11483464.

In this episode, we explore the intricate relationship between periodontal health and systemic diseases. From cardiovascular conditions and diabetes to adverse pregnancy outcomes and respiratory illnesses, periodontal disease has been increasingly recognized as a contributing factor in a wide range of systemic health issues.

Join us as we discuss the latest scientific findings, clinical implications, and strategies for integrating periodontal care into comprehensive patient management. Whether you're a dental professional, medical provider, or simply curious about the mouth-body connection, this episode sheds light on how oral health truly reflects and impacts overall health.

Isola G, Santonocito S, Lupi SM, Polizzi A, Sclafani R, Patini R, Marchetti E. Periodontal Health and Disease in the Context of Systemic Diseases. Mediators Inflamm. 2023 May 13;2023:9720947. doi: 10.1155/2023/9720947. PMID: 37214190; PMCID: PMC10199803.

In this episode of Beyond the Gums, we explore how periodontal health is deeply connected to overall systemic well-being. From inflammation and cardiovascular disease to diabetes and pregnancy outcomes, your gums may be telling a much bigger story about your health than you realize. Join us as we break down the latest science, uncover the hidden links between the mouth and body, and discuss what patients and providers need to know about prevention, early diagnosis, and integrated care.

Whether you're a dental professional, a healthcare provider, or simply someone who wants to take control of your health—this episode will change the way you think about your gums.

Huang, D., Wang, YY., Li, BH. et al. Association between periodontal disease and systemic diseases: a cross-sectional analysis of current evidence. Military Med Res 11, 74 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40779-024-00583-y