What do inflammations in the mouth have to do with my health?

Periodontitis numbers among the most widespread diseases. The word periodontitis refers to an inflammation of the periodontium. Alongside cavities, periodontitis is the second major disease in the mouth. It is triggered by bacteria that collects in plaque. Toxins and enzymes subsequently destroy the surrounding tissue. The human immune system reacts with an inflammation that remains painless for a quite a long time – and for that reason, it is often discovered too late. More than half of all adults have periodontitis.

[The Fourth German Oral Health Study explains further who exactly the disease afflicts]

What many don’t know: Even in its early stages, periodontitis can have a significantly negative impact on overall health. In cases of pre-existing conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, vascular diseases, joint conditions and rheumatoid arthritis, and also before and during pregnancy, the risk of negative interactions can be significantly increased. Worst-case scenarios could include unstable blood sugar levels, heart attack, stroke, rheumatic inflammation and premature birth. The reduction of these risk factors requires a co-operation between your primary care physician and your dental specialist for periodontitis or periodontist.

To detect and treat periodontitis as early as possible, medical and dental professionals currently use a variety of diagnostic procedures, including measurements taken using a periodontal probe, x-rays and bacterial, genetic or enzyme tests. (Source: IDI PARO)

The PerioMarker® aMMP-8 Rapid Test (available in dentists’ offices) and the ORI Oral Risk Indicator aMMP-8 Rapid Test Professional (available in primary care doctors’ and specialists’ offices) test saliva to reveal enzymes responsible for hidden inflammations in the mouth. Ask your doctor or dentist about the test for you.