What health conditions are linked to tooth loss?

As a child, losing a tooth meant a visit from a mythical figure and sometimes a small reward. It also made your smile more charming, receiving "oohs" and "aahs" from adults. As an adult, however, the situation changes. Tooth loss now comes with costly dental expenses and may impact your appearance. Even more concerning, it can increase the risk of developing serious, long-term health conditions. But before diving into those, let’s first explore the main culprit behind tooth loss: periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is the leading cause of tooth loss, particularly for individuals over 35 [source: American Academy of Periodontology]. While less common, other factors like osteoporosis and facial injury can also contribute. Osteoporosis leads to reduced bone density, weakening the bone that supports the teeth [source: American Academy of Periodontology].

Periodontal disease progresses in two stages: gingivitis, which causes swollen, bleeding, and painful gums, and periodontitis, the more severe stage. However, the condition begins with plaque, the sticky substance that attaches to teeth and gums. Plaque contains bacteria, which in turn produce acids and chemicals that break down gum tissue.

Plaque is a naturally occurring substance in the mouth, so it can't be entirely avoided. However, its effects can be minimized with good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and visits to the dentist for cleanings and checkups. Factors that can make plaque harder to manage include smoking, chewing tobacco, a family history of gum disease, stress, poor diet, and a weakened immune system from conditions like diabetes, leukemia, or AIDS.

Now that we’ve explored the primary cause of tooth loss, let’s examine how periodontal disease can lead to other serious health problems. Keep reading to find out more.

Other Health Conditions Associated with Periodontal Disease

Earlier, we discussed the role bacteria plays in causing periodontal disease and, in some cases, tooth loss. Researchers believe bacteria from plaque may enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting other areas of the body. As a result, gum disease has been linked to various chronic conditions:

Cardiovascular diseases: There has been a long-established connection between periodontal disease and cardiovascular issues. Research has highlighted a significant link between tooth loss due to gum disease and the presence of carotid artery plaque, as well as the development of peripheral artery disease [sources: Desvarieux, et. al.; Hung, et. al]. A study conducted in China found that adults with a high number of missing teeth had a 28 percent greater risk of dying from heart disease and a 12 percent higher risk of dying from a stroke [source: Abnet, et. al].

Cancer: Experts have long been aware of the link between periodontal disease and cancer. Recent studies suggest there are even more potential connections than previously thought. Not only can severe gum disease contribute to oral, lung, pancreatic, and upper gastrointestinal cancers, but it may also be linked to breast cancer [sources: Meyer, et. al; Soder, et. al].

Dementia: The Nun Study, an important ongoing research project on aging, has provided valuable insights into dementia. One of its findings suggests that tooth loss may be connected to memory loss. While periodontal disease might be responsible for this increased dementia risk, other factors, such as childhood nutritional deficiencies, may also play a role. This connection is still being studied, and more research is expected to clarify the issue [source: American Dental Association].

Chronic kidney disease: There is a well-documented but not fully understood association between periodontal disease and chronic kidney disease. Studies have shown that tooth loss is linked to a higher risk of kidney issues, but it is still unclear whether this link is causal or coincidental [source: American Academy of Periodontology].

Pregnancy risks: Periodontal disease and tooth loss during pregnancy can lead to complications like premature birth, preeclampsia, and fetal growth restriction. Moreover, not only can periodontal disease cause complications in pregnancy, but pregnancy itself can accelerate the progression of gum disease. Unfortunately, current treatments do not seem to slow the advancement of periodontal disease during pregnancy. Researchers suggest that more aggressive treatments may be necessary for pregnant women, though this remains under investigation. One thing is certain, though: proper dental care is crucial during pregnancy [source: The Canadian Press].

That’s a rather alarming list of potential risks. It seems that neglecting proper oral care can lead to more serious issues than just cavities or bad breath. While some of the links between periodontal disease and other health conditions are still being studied, it’s wise to play it safe and follow your dentist’s advice: brush and floss twice daily and after meals, and visit your dentist for a cleaning and checkup twice a year. To minimize your risk of gum problems, experts recommend reducing stress, eating a balanced diet, quitting smoking, and addressing tooth grinding [source: WebMD].

Need more details before you head out to grab some floss and toothpaste? You’re in luck: Check out the resources and links on the next page for additional information.