Several studies have shown that periodontal disease is associated with heart disease.  While a cause and effect relationship has not yet been proven, research has indicated that periodontal disease increases the risk of heart disease.  Scientists believe that inflammation caused by periodontal disease may be responsible for the association.

Diabetic patients are more likely to develop periodontal disease, which in turn can increase blood sugar and diabetic complications.                                                   People with diabetes are more likely to have periodontal disease than people without diabetes, probably because people with diabetes are more susceptible to contracting infections.  In fact, periodontal disease is often considered a complication of diabetes.  Those people who don't have their diabetes under control are especially at risk.

Researchers have suggested that a link between osteoporosis and bone loss in the jaw.  Studies suggest that osteoporosis may lead to tooth loss because the density of the bone that supports the teeth may decrease, which means the teeth no longer have a solid foundation.

Research has found that bacteria that grow in the oral cavity can be aspirated into the lungs to cause respiratory diseases such as pneumonia, especially in people with periodontal disease.

Researchers have found that men with gum disease were 49% more likely to develop kidney cancer, 54% more likely to develop pancreatic cancer, and 30% more likely to develop blood cancers.

Pregnant women with periodontal disease are 7 times more likely to have preterm birth or a low birth weight baby.

Additional studies have pointed to a relationship between periodontal disease and stroke.

Some researchers believe that inflammation of the gingiva could cause inflammation of other areas of the body.  Arthritis could occur based on the inflammation of the joints.