Gum disease doesn’t just “get better.” It needs to be stopped in its tracks before it leads to irreversible damage.
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Let’s rethink sugar.
Dentists have spent decades talking about how sugar causes cavities. It’s true—sugar in the mouth leads to acid, which leads to decay. But that’s just scratching the surface.
The bigger problem with sugar? It wreaks havoc on your entire body, including your gums.
A recent study published in Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology reveals that the bacteria causing gum disease, Porphyromonas gingivalis, can disrupt insulin signaling and lead to systemic insulin resistance—a key driver of metabolic disorders. The researchers emphasized, “P. gingivalis induces host insulin resistance and systemic inflammation, establishing its critical role in the progression of metabolic dysfunction.” You can read the full study here.
Another study from Tokyo Medical and Dental University found that the same bacteria that causes gum disease, P. gingivalis, can lead to systemic insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction by altering the gut microbiome. The researchers noted, “P. gingivalis is also associated with systemic diseases, of which insulin resistance is an important pathological basis.” You can read the study here.
Another study revealed that maintaining good oral hygiene can help prevent metabolic syndrome—a cluster of conditions that increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. The researchers concluded, “Good oral health can have protective effects against systemic metabolic disorders.” You can find the study here.
Bleeding gums aren’t just a dental issue—it’s a systemic problem with far-reaching effects.
When the gums are healthy, they act as a protective seal, keeping harmful bacteria and toxins out of the bloodstream. But gum disease weakens this barrier, allowing bacteria and inflammatory markers to “feed and seed” systemic problems, like:
- Cardiovascular disease (heart attack, stroke)
- Alzheimer’s and dementia
- Diabetes
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Preterm birth and low birth weight
The key is prevention. Gum disease doesn’t just “get better.” It needs to be stopped in its tracks before it leads to irreversible damage.
How to Break the Cycle
A single drop of water falling on a rock every day will eventually wear it down (think—the Grand Canyon). But pour a whole bucket on it at once, and nothing changes.
What the heck am I talking about? Small, consistent actions are what transform your health over time. Be like the drop of water—be consistent!
- Brush and floss daily—but don’t stress if you miss a day.
If you’re short on time, swish with water or chew xylitol gum to keep your mouth in balance until you can brush again. Consistency over time matters more than perfection. - Cut back on sugar by adding more protein.
Protein helps stabilize your blood sugar and reduce sugar cravings naturally. Instead of focusing on what to take away, try adding foods like eggs, nuts, or a quality protein snack. One of my go-to options is Paleovalley’s Pasture-Raised Chicken Sticks, which are portable, satisfying, and nutrient-packed. Check them out here: Paleovalley Chicken Sticks. - Add more whole foods to your diet.
Leafy greens, nuts, and foods rich in calcium and phosphorus help your teeth stay strong and your gums healthy. Think of what you can add, not just what to take away. - Find a dentist you trust and feel comfortable with.
Regular checkups are about early detection, not judgment. A good dentist will work with you to meet your goals—without guilt trips. Are you working with a dentist on my Functional Dentist Directory yet?
5. Be kind to yourself.
Oral health is a lifelong journey. If you’re making even small changes, you’re moving in the right direction. Healing takes time, and every step counts.
Your mouth isn’t just where health starts—it’s where disease starts too. By caring for your oral health, you’re not just protecting your teeth; you’re reducing inflammation, improving metabolic health, and safeguarding your heart, brain, and longevity. This isn’t just about a healthier smile—it’s about aging well, staying active for your kids, and living a life free from chronic disease.
This week, I’m traveling to Miami to meet with Ben Azadi, where I’ll be a guest on his podcast. Ben is someone who truly gets it—he understands that the current “cut, drug, and bill” espoused by our medical system is broken. Dentistry has its own version—”drill, fill, and bill” and we’re going to talk about that, along with the deeper connection between oral health, systemic health, and metabolic disease.
If there’s a specific topic you’d like me to cover on the podcast, hit reply and let me know. I’d love to hear your thoughts.
And if you haven’t already, subscribe to Ben’s YouTube channel. This is going to be a conversation you won’t want to miss.
Warmly,
Dr. Mark Burhenne
P.S. Traveling always throws off my sleep. But I’ve found that traveling with my Mag Breakthrough makes such a difference. Click here to unlock Black Friday discounts and gifts with purchase with code ASKTHEDENTIST.
