Gum disease can lead to Rheumatoid Arthritis. - Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris

Gum disease is an infection caused by bacteria found in our mouth. Porphyromonas Gingivalis( P.Gingivalis) has been known for many years as being one of the bacteria strains closely linked to gum disease. Recently there is mounting evidence that after the bacteria establish themselves in our mouth, they manage to reach other parts of our bodies via the blood stream.

A recent survey of patients with rheumatoid arthritis has found that there is an “an independent relationship between PD(Periodontal Disease) and established seropositive RA( Rheumatoid Arthritis”. This is another example of the large impact gum disease can have on our health and why it is important to stop gum disease, to avoid severe health problems like diabetes, prostate cancer, preterm delivery, stroke and now rheumatoid arthritis.

When I examine each patient I check for the presence of gum inflammation and monitor the changes over time. Please make an appointment to have your gum condition checked.