Gum Disease Linked to Heart Disease

Gum Disease Can Contribute to Heart Disease and Even Stroke

Analysis of medical research shows that gum disease, stroke, and heart disease are linked. A troublesome conclusion, since heart disease is commonly fatal, which means if you suffer from gum disease, treating it is of utmost importance to retaining your health. The American Dental Association estimates that 8 out of 10 Americans have periodontal (gum) disease. These figures should guarantee that gum disease would be handled as a nationwide epidemic. But because tooth loss is considered merely unpleasant, not immediately life threatening, the danger of the disease has been ignored for far too long. However, that thought process is altering.

The American Academy of Periodontology has released the following statement: "Studies found periodontal infection may contribute to the development of heart disease, increase the risk of premature, underweight births, and pose a serious threat to people whose health is already compromised due to diabetes and respiratory diseases." The bacteria that infect your gums when you suffer from periodontal disease can invade your soft tissues, move into your bloodstream, and create problems in your heart, lungs, and other vital organs.

Donald W. Ray II, DMD 
Mary Alice Connor, DMD 
432 Frye Farm Road 
Greensburg, PA 15601 
(724) 537-0800 
SimplyPerfectSmiles.net