12/16/2025
Your immune system is beautifully designed to know when to fight โ and when to stand down.
But sometimes, that balance can slip.
According to NIH research, tiny changes in something called the PD-1 / PD-L1 pathway โ the bodyโs natural โbrake systemโ for immune reactions โ may increase the risk of both gum disease and autoimmune conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or multiple sclerosis.
Hereโs the simple version ๐
This pathway helps your immune system tell the difference between harmful bacteria and your own healthy tissues. When itโs not working perfectly, your body may start attacking its own cells, leading to inflammation โ not only in your joints or skin, but even in your gums.
๐ฆท Your mouth can be one of the first places your immune system shows signs of stress.
Gums that bleed, swell, or feel tender can reflect more than brushing habits โ they can sometimes mirror whatโs happening in your bodyโs immune balance.
Caring for your gums isnโt just about a pretty smile โ itโs part of nurturing your whole-body wellness and supporting your immune systemโs natural calm. ๐
๐ Source: National Institutes of Health (NIH) reviews on PD-1 / PD-L1 immune pathways and their link to periodontal and autoimmune diseases.
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