Periodontal Disease Linked to Early Death in Older Women | Dental Blog

Sore, red or bleeding gums can signify periodontal disease and may be a symptom of early death. Although previous studies have suggested a link between heart disease and gum problems, professors at the University of Buffalo now suggest older women are most at risk of death from various causes if they suffer from gum disease.

– Data suggests that women over 55 who have lost their teeth due to gum disease are at least 17% more at risk of dying from all causes.
– In a study of over 57,000 women over 55, almost 4,000 died over a period of almost 7 years. In addition, over 3,500 cardiovascular events took place.

– Further research is needed to explain the links between gum disease, cardio-vascular problems and death.
“Our findings suggest that older women may be at higher risk for death because of their periodontal condition.”