Periodontitis according to the National Institute of Health means, inflammation around the tooth. Periodontitis can result in a patient’s gums pulling away from the teeth and forming spaces (called “pockets”) that become infected.
The body’s immune system fights the bacteria as the plaque spreads and grows below the gum line. Bacterial toxins and the body’s natural response to infection start to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. If not treated, the bones, gums, and tissue that support the teeth are destroyed. The teeth may eventually become loose and have to be removed.
And if all that isn’t bad enough, here’s when it starts to become a problem for the rest of your body including your ears. Periodontitis bacteria can travel in the bloodstream and cause damage to other parts of the body. And although untreated periodontitis will eventually result in tooth loss, it may also increase the risk of stroke, heart attack and create other health problems including hearing loss.
Find out what's happening in Newtonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
A recent study in the Journal of Otology and Neurotology reported a significant relationship between a previous diagnosis of chronic periodontitis and sudden sensorineural hearing loss. If you have chronic gum disease and have noticed a sudden change in your ability to hear it’s possible the two conditions are related and you should seek medical attention immediately.
