Dr. Mogell Dental Blog

Boca Raton Cosmetic Dentist

Periodontal Diease and Endometriosis

Monday, January 17, 2011

Association between endometriosis and periodontal disease?

Okay so periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and the jaw bones. So why do researchers at the University of Michigan Health System see a connection between periodontal disease and endometriosis?

Dr. Dan I. Lebovic and his colleagues believe that the development of endometriosis is "a defect in the immune system's ability to clear retrograde menstrual flow." The connection…autoimmunity has also been implicated in the development of periodontal disease.

The study published in the journal Fertility and Sterility examined the association between endometriosis and periodontal disease. From 1999 to 2004 data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey showed that women with endometriosis had a 57% increased risk of periodontal disease as opposed to those women who did not have gynecological condition.
Dr. Lebovic noted that endometriosis may also "be augmented by an immune response to an infectious agent", periodontal pathogens.

More motivation for maintaining a healthy mouth!
If you have any questions about periodontal disease and how it can affect your overall health, please do not hesitate to contact us at 561-394-9000. We will arrange an appointment to perform a comprehensive examination and help you get on your way to a healthier mouth and healthier life!

Kenneth A. Mogell, D.M.D.