Oral bacteria are living microbes, and as such, they consume and metabolize the nutrients that you expose them to. Some produce harmful substances, like acids that erode tooth enamel. By contrast, P. gingivalis produces a molecule that hides it from your immune system and interferes with its ability to control inflammation. While your body uses inflammation to drive out harmful microorganisms, the presence of P. gingivalis in your gums forces the inflammation to continue, leading to chronic, inflammatory periodontal disease.
When your gums are diseased, the tissue can bleed when you brush, floss, or apply pressure (i.e., biting and chewing). As the bleeding occurs, P. gingivalis may enter the bloodstream and travel to other areas of the body, inciting rampant inflammation there, as well. Because of this, people who have chronic periodontal disease are often at increased risks of other systemic health concerns, including heart disease, stroke, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, dementia, and more.
Of the hundreds of kinds of oral bacteria found in dental plaque, Porphyromonas gingivalis is often the driving force behind chronic periodontal disease and systemic health concerns. To learn more, schedule a consultation with Dr. Kania by calling her periodontal office in Encinitas/San Diego, CA, at (760) 642-0711.
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