Complication: Arthritis

Symptoms

Stiff or achy joints, joint pain, joint swelling, fever, fatigue, decreased range of motion, numbness and tingling

Arthritis is the inflammation of one or more joints. Regularly brushing and flossing your teeth may prevent you from getting arthritis. Arthritis and gum disease have a high correlation. The bacteria that causes gum disease, gingivalis, may also damage joints. One study from Case Western Reserve University shows a link between individuals with gum disease and arthritis.

The same bacteria from the passage of bacteria in the mouth was found in the fluid surrounding the kneecap of a patient with arthritis. Researchers determined that this gum bacterium entered the bloodstream and made its way to the weakened kneecap with arthritis. This study did not prove that periodontitis caused arthritis in the knee, but it did provide a case for the theory that gum disease leads to a host of other ailments in the body.

In one study, a gum disease bacterium, gingivalis, was found to worsen collagen-induced arthritis by causing accelerated progression and greater severity of the disease. This included increased bone and cartilage destruction.

Daily brushing and flossing of your teeth may keep harmful bacteria from spreading throughout the rest of your body causing further health problems.

Tips to Help Prevent Arthritis

• Eat fish (Omega-3 helps reduce inflammation)
• Exercise
• Avoid injuries
• Protect your joints