EFFECTS OF SYSTEMIC DISEASES ON PERIODONTIUM
Introduction
● Systemic diseases or conditions themselves do not cause periodontitis
● Systemic diseases alter host tissues & physiology predispose, accelerate or increase the progression
of periodontal disease.
● A variety of systemic diseases and conditions can by the course of periodontitis have a negative
impact on the periodontal attachment apparatus.
● There are many diseases and conditions that can affect periodontal tissues either by:
○ Influencing the course of periodontitis.
○ Affecting the periodontal supporting tissue independently of the disease
● Nutritional deficiencies can contribute to periodontists which can weaken the immune system,
increase oxidative stress, and reduce the body's ability to regenerate bone and tissue.
○ VIT c - since vit c is involved in repair and maintenance of connective tissue deficiency will
cause scurvy, can cause bleeding gums and gingivitis.
○ VIT b6-can impair the immune system and increase the risk of susceptibility to Periodontal
disease.
○ Iron - help synthesize proteins like hemoglobin and enzymes. This can lead into anemia
with oral manifestations like burning of the mouth and pale mucosa.
○ Calcium – helps build density of the bone that supports the teeth
○ Potassium - low levels of fiber and potassium are with an increased risk of periodontal
disease. A deficiency may lead to increased sensitivity of teeth, higher risk of caries and
weakened bone.
Cardiovascular Diseases and the Periodontium
● The risk of CVD associated with periodontics is greater for younger people and men. The severity of
periodontitis is associated with the risk of CvD, and treating periodontitis reduces systemic
inflammation in the body. Pathogens from the mouth can enter Atherosclerotic plaques through the
bloodstream, promoting inflammation and immune responses
Kidney Disease and Periodontium
● Kidney disease can disrupt the body's balance of minerals and nutrients which can affect. Bone
health and lead to tooth loss. kidney failure can cause bone disease called renal osteodystrophy the
lack of phosphorous and calcium seen with dysfunction of the kidneys causes quick demineralization.
Consequently, gum disease may affect kidney health through the spread of Bacteria through the
blood and to the other parts of the body.
Liver Disease and Periodontium
● Periodontitis and liver disease have a directional relationship. Bacteria and toxins from periodontitis
can enter the bloodstream through the liver which can lead to oxidative stress and lipids.
Peroxidation can contribute to liver disease; some patients with liver cancer exhibit severe bone loss
and consequent tooth loss. Patients with liver cirrhosis may have poor oral hygiene that may
contribute to recurring oral infections. In some cases, liver disease can cause changes in the soft
tissue of the mouth such as the tongue cheeks and gums leading to discoloration or known as
jaundice mouth where a yellowish tint appears on the mucous membranes a build of the pigment
bilirubin causes the yellowish tint
Effects of Epilepsy
● On the periodontium patients with Epilepsy are more likely to have periodontal disease due to a
number of factors including poor oral hygiene, seizures (which can cause oral injuries such as biting
of the tongue, tooth Injuries, and oral maxillofacial trauma) and effects of medications such like
phenytoin cause gingival hyperplasia. A good oral hygiene routine will benefit a healthier mouth and
collaboration with the physician for optimum dental treatment is encouraged.
