How Are Psoriasis, Gum Disease, & Smoking Related?

Close up of a blue tooth brushBack in 2014, there was a study conducted in Hungary to look at a potential link between Psoriasis and Gum Disease, also known as Periodontitis. The study was conducted because both of these conditions are caused by inflammation. The researchers at the Facility of Dentistry at the University of Szeged in Hungary worked with the university’s dermatology department and took in volunteers to monitor and determine if there might be a link between these conditions.

Within Hungary, there are many who smoke. Those individuals were added to the study as well because smoking became another significant factor as the study progressed. The results of the study we will get to in a minute.

Gum Disease

Even though you may not have Psoriasis there is a big possibility that you do have some form of gum disease. According to the CDC, nearly half of the US population has gum disease. Gum disease is a condition that can cause severe problems if not treated. It causes more than red, swollen & bleeding gums. Gum disease can cause tooth loss, bone loss, and can contribute to other conditions that can be detrimental to your health.

Gum disease must be treated sooner than later because the damage is often irreversible in the later stages of the disease. For this reason, you should schedule an appointment with our Boston periodontist if you have noticed any of these symptoms:

  • Puffy red gums
  • Bleeding gums after brushing
  • Tenderness to the touch
  • Puss between your teeth and gums
  • Severely bad breath
  • Loose or missing teeth
  • Painful chewing

Some of these symptoms sound fairly severe. They can become severe if minor symptoms are left untreated for too long. Gum Disease treatment in Boston is so much easier to address when you schedule an appointment. Let our periodontist, Dr. Guzman treat it before it can lead to worse symptoms like tooth and bone loss.

Study Results

Now back to the study results. It was found that those who did have Psoriasis were more prone to have gum disease. Additionally, if they were smokers they were more at risk for having gum disease and the severity was greater.

Get Regular Dental Checkups

We all must be vigilant in maintaining proper brushing and flossing to prevent gum disease from becoming a problem. Prevention is much easier, less costly, and less time-consuming than gum disease treatment.

Schedule an appointment with us today if you are concerned you may have symptoms of gum disease. Let our periodontist, Dr. Guzman, work with you on a treatment plan to heal your gums and improve your quality of life.

Related Posts