"People think of gum disease in terms of their teeth, but they don't think about the fact that gum disease is a serious infection that can release bacteria into the bloodstream"
Dr. Robert Genco, editor “Journal of Periodontology”
Periodontal disease leads to inflammation of the gums. This inflammatory bacteria then enters your bloodstream and travels throughout your body. Researchers have linked this process to a number of serious medical conditions. It is important to treat periodontal disease as quickly as possible to avoid the release of bacteria and inflammation into your bloodstream.
Heart Disease & Heart Attack
Recent studies have shown that people with periodontal disease are more likely to suffer a heart attack.Stroke
Studies have also shown that people with periodontal disease are 3 times more likely to suffer a stroke.Pre-Term Childbirth
Women with periodontal disease are 7-8 times more likely to give birth prematurely to a low birth-weight baby.Diabetes
Periodontal infection has been shown to adversely affect the control of diabetes. Conversely, treatment of periodontal disease and reduction of inflammation may have a positive affect on the diabetic condition.Respiratory Disease
A number of studies have found that the mouth can serve as a reservoir for respiratory germs increasing the risk of pneumonia. Evidence has shown that improving oral hygiene may prevent pneumonia in vulnerable patients.
Periodontal Infection is a Medical Problem
Periodontal disease is no longer thought to be just a dental problem. Researchers are finding many correlations between periodontal infection and serious medical problems.
If you are currently seeing a medical doctor, please inform Dr. Block of your condition, as he may be able to aid in treating it.
Your Infection Can Be Transmitted
Research using DNA testing has found that 80% of all periodontal bacteria is transmitted by a parent or spouse. Patients with a periodontal disease can pass the bacteria along to their loved ones.
Some Patients are At a Higher Risk
Patients in certain higher risk categories (see below) should pay particular attention to any signs of periodontal disease.
Those patients having a personal or family history of:
- Heart disease
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Premature childbirth
- Diabetes
- Respiratory diseases
- Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (decaying bone)
- Osteoporosis
- Genetic History of Periodontal Disease
Those patients having higher risk lifestyles, including:
- Chronic stress
- Smoker
- Sedentary and overweight
- Frequent colds, flu, etc.
Also, patients who are taking the following medications have a higher risk:
- Aredia
- Zometa
- Fosamax
- Calcium channel blockers (such as Nifedipino, etc.)
- Seizure medications (such as Dilantin, etc.)
- Anti-rejection medications (such as Cyclasporin, etc.)
Higher Risk Patients
If you have been told you have periodontal infection (or some of its symptoms) it is vital that you seek evaluation and treatment.
Click here to learn about the dental consequences of periodontal disease.
