periodontal care

Most patients acknowledge the potential damage to their teeth from gum disease but are unaware of the more serious implications that may result.  Periodontal disease is a serious infection that can release bacteria into the bloodstream.  Routine acts such as brushing, flossing, and chewing can promote a body-invasion of bacteria with risks for many patients, and recent studies indicate that it can lead to very serious complications.

Research has shown that individuals with periodontal disease are 1.5 to 2 times as likely to suffer a fatal heart attack and nearly 3 times as likely to suffer a stroke as those without the presence of this oral disease.  The association with heart disease is especially strong in patients under the age of 50.

While it has long been known that diabetes predisposes patients to bacterial infections, recent studies indicate that periodontitis can actually make diabetes worse.  Diabetic patients with this condition have greater difficulty maintaining normal blood sugar levels.  Fortunately, proper treatment of periodontitis has resulted in a reduced need for insulin.

Recent studies have also shown a link between periodontitis and a number of respiratory ailments.  Bacterial pneumonia can result when bacteria that live in the mouth or throat are inhaled into the lungs, and immune defenses fail to wipe them out.  Several agents that can cause pneumonia thrive in infected oral tissue of patients with periodontal disease.  Moreover, other respiratory diseases, such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema, may be worsened by infections when invading bacteria are inhaled. Finally, there is strong evidence of a link between periodontal disease and the risk of premature birth.

Remember:  Bleeding gums are not normal. Please call us and ask for a consultation with Dr. Shainbrown who was a former instructor in the periodontal department at the dental school.