Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is a heart-stopper?

According to The American academy of Periodontology, more than 75% of adults over 35 have some form of gum or periodontal disease. And men are at greater risk than women for advanced periodontitis, an infection of the gums, according to researchers at the University of Maryland Dental School.

Poor oral health can compromise your overall health by creating gum (periodontal) disease and tooth decay. Gum disease is painless and may go unnoticed, is difficult to get rid of once it starts and can result in life-threatening outcomes.

What does untreated gum disease do?

• Contribute to illnesses such respiratory disease - the mouth can act as a breeding ground for respiratory pathogens, which are sometimes found in plaque in deep periodontal pockets.

• Increase the risk of heart attack - there is an increased risk of 25% of coronary heart disease for people with advanced periodontitis.

• Increase the risk of stroke tenfold - the bacteria can create toxins that are associated with chronic infections, which may cause strokes.

• Increase the risk and severity of diabetes - diabetes affects periodontal health; studies now show the reverse is also true; periodontal disease may affect diabetes. Severe periodontal disease may increase the risk of poor glycemic control. Diabetic patients with good oral hygiene are less likely to suffer stroke, transient ischemic attack and angina or myocardial infarctions.

• Reduce life expectancy.

• Severely reduce the effectiveness of the immune system - by stressing the immune system with having to constantly battle periodontitis, the ability to fight other infections and more serious illnesses such as cancer are diminished.

Dental infections, especially those like long term periodontal disease and infected tooth roots can impact and jeopardize medical treatment because the immune system is stressed. Regular dental check-ups are necessary for your oral health and your overall health. Research has proven this and it will show in your own health. For more information on the connection between gum disease and your health, please go to http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/dental/ and http://www.wtnperioblog.com/be-careful-kiss/

Don’t put your life at risk by skipping regular visits. At 3D Dental Solutions, we help you to remove those risks and to have a better quality of life.

Make a difference in your life by choosing Dr. Burch, dentist in Mclean VA to improve your oral health and have a better, healthier life. You won’t believe the difference!