"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
Heart Disease & Heart Attack
Recent studies have shown that people with periodontal disease are
2.7 times 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 can raise blood sugar in diabetic patients.
Periodontal treatment often results in a reduced need for insulin.
Respiratory Disease
Periodontal infection in the mouth can be breathed in and increase
the severity of such respiratory diseases as pneumonia, bronchitis
and emphysema.
Your Bacteria Can Be Transmitted
Research using DNA testing has found that periodontal bacteria can
be transmitted from parent to child and spouse to spouse.
Periodontal Infection is a Medical Problem
Periodontal disease is no longer thought of as just a dental problem.
Research is finding many correlations between periodontal infection
and serious medical problems.
Some Patients are At Higher Risk
These correlations are particularly serious for those patients who
are in a higher risk category such as:
Those having a personal or family history of: Heart Disease Heart Attack Stroke Premature Childbirth Diabetes Respiratory
Diseases
Those having higher risk lifestyles, including: Chronic Stress Smoker Sedentary and
Overweight Frequent Colds,
Flu etc.
Higher Risk Patients
If you have been told you have periodontal infection (or have some
of its symptoms), it is vital that you seek evaluation and treatment.
