Gum Disease and Cirrhorsis

Gum disease is a serious issue in its own right and it has implications for other parts of the body, as well. But there is good news. At Bernstein Dental Care in Bay Ridge, we’re happy to share with our patients recent research showing that treatment for gum infections can improve symptoms of cirrhosis.


When a person has cirrhosis, their liver has scarred over as a result of chronic inflammation. This inhibits the liver’s ability to filter blood, causing inflammation throughout the body and a decline in cognitive function. It is widely known that cirrhosis and gum disease can both result from smoking and excessive alcohol, but there is also a version of cirrhosis called non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. People with this ailment also have unusually high rates of gingivitis, which prompted scientists to examine whether there was a causative link.


In the study conducted at Virginia Commonwealth University, people with both cirrhosis and periodontal disease were divided into one group that received gum treatment immediately and one which received it later. It turned out that when people were treated, their cognitive function significantly improved and they had a higher count of gut bacteria that prevent inflammation. This is the latest of several studies that show various aspects of peoples’ health improve when infections are removed from their gum pockets. We hope it will encourage our patients to keep up their brushing.


Dr. Paul Bernstein runs Bernstein Dental Care at 350 91st St, Suite 1C, Brooklyn, New York, 11209. To schedule an appointment, visit Bernstein Dental Care or call 718-833-9191.


 

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