Gum Disease and Healthy Eyes

Oral health is closely tied to the health of the rest of the body. At Dr. Suzanne Haeri’s South Carthay dental office, we don’t want our patients to miss regular cleanings or neglect their oral hygiene. One more reason to brush is the connection between gum disease and macular degeneration.

Gum disease occurs when bacteria are allowed to grow out of control in the gum pockets, triggering the immune system’s inflammation response. Bleeding gums are the result of gingivitis. Macular degeneration is an incurable eye disease that occurs when the macula, a part of the retina, thins out, has fluid leaking into it, or has blood vessels growing in it. It causes people to have blurry spots in the center of their vision.

Scientists had long observed that macular degeneration is more common in people with gingivitis, but did not know why. A new study established that one particular type of bacteria from the mouth, Porphyromonas gingivalis, can infect the tissues of the eye. When the tissue was infected, immunosuppression and growth of new blood vessel tissue were likelier. Scientists have more to learn about the association, but there’s reason to think that keeping the gums healthy can also help keep the eyes safe.

Suzanne Haeri, DDS, is located at 1100 S. La Cienega Blvd., Los Angeles, California, 90035. To set up an appointment, call 310-647-2200 or visit Suzanne Haeri DDS and fill out a request.