Presence of Gum Disease Predicts High Mortality from Cirrhosis
Severe Gum Disease (periodontitis) has been found to strongly increase the risk of early death among people with scarring of the liver (cirrhosis).
Cirrhosis is the major cause of liver transplantation. The condition also accounts for approximately 1 to 2 percent of all deaths in Europe.
Periodontitis is the inflammation of the gums and other supporting tissues of the teeth. The inflammation is often caused by bacteria and will lead to the deepening of the periodontal sockets due to the loss of connective tissue.
The prevalence of periodontitis is estimated to be 35 percent in the adult population, with 10 to 15 percent having severe disease. Untreated gum disease will most likely lead to tooth loss.
Previous studies have indicated that periodontitis may be linked to worsening of many diseases such as chronic kidney disease and diabetes. Periodontitis and overall poor oral health are closely linked to cirrhosis. Studies have shown that periodontitis contributes to worsening of liver disease and negatively affects health after liver transplantation.
The study which involved 184 patients reveals that periodontitis acts as a persistent source of oral bacteria that leads to inflammation and other cirrhosis complications.
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http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/317063.php
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Dr Ashley Davenport BDS MFGDP(UK)
I qualified as a dentist in 1995 and can honestly say that I have been doing a job that I love for the past 20 plus years. Most people who know me well know that dentistry is a passion for me and that if I won the lottery I would still want to have some dentistry in my life. I get huge satisfaction from treating patients and making a difference to ...
Dr Catherine Myatt BDS MFGDP(UK)
Cath joined the practice as a dentist in 2002. She and Ashley met on their postgraduate Vocational Training course in Birmingham when they ended up working at the same practice in West Bromwich. When Ashley was looking for an associate at Balsall Common Dental Practice, Cath came to take the role and she has been here ever since. In 2017 Cath...
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