A Case of Untreated Oral Infection

The patient shares in this video that she had 2 root canals treated teeth done 15 years ago and were retreated. They were giving her some health issues, and in addition, she was having fatigue. When she came to see Dr. Burke at Family Holistic Dentistry, Dr. Burke gave her some options to treat her infected Root canal teeth, and ultimately, she decided that zirconia implants were the best option for her. We found a lot of infection when Dr Burke cleaned the area. She has had an easy recovery and no problem with the Essix, and when she needed help from the doctor, Burke was always there and willing to help her.

Untreated oral infections can have a range of systematic effects on the body, impacting more than just oral health. Here are some of the key effects:

Cardiovascular Disease: Studies indicate that bacteria in inflamed gums can enter the bloodstream and contribute to atherosclerosis in the heart's arteries. This can lead to blockages that increase the risk of heart attacks or strokes (Lockhart et al., 2012).

Diabetes: Oral infections can complicate blood sugar control, worsening diabetes symptoms. Conversely, diabetes can increase the likelihood of infections due to impaired bacterial clearance. Periodontal disease is a recognized complication associated with diabetes (Taylor et al., 2013).

Respiratory Infections: Bacteria from oral infections can be aspirated into the lungs or transmitted to the lungs via the bloodstream, potentially leading to respiratory infections, pneumonia, acute bronchitis, and even chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (Scannapieco, 1999).

Pregnancy Complications: Evidence suggests that gum disease is linked to premature birth and low birth weight. The hypothesis is that oral bacteria release toxins, which affect the fetus through the placenta, impacting development (Offenbacher et al., 2006).

Increased Risk of Dementia: Studies have suggested a link between periodontal disease and a higher risk of developing dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. The proposed mechanism is that oral bacteria might directly infect the brain or exert systemic effects that contribute to brain pathology (Kamer et al., 2008).

Osteoporosis: Research has shown some association between periodontitis and bone loss, including in areas like the jaw. Chronic inflammation from gum disease may accelerate systemic bone loss, potentially linking to osteoporosis (Wactawski-Wende, 2001).

These references highlight the critical nature of addressing oral infections promptly and maintaining good oral hygiene as a preventive measure against numerous systemic health issues.