Many studies suggest a link between gum disease and serious conditions like heart disease. While the
evidence is not yet clear, it is compelling. According to the American

Academy of Periodontology, people with periodontal disease are

almost twice as likely to have coronary artery disease (also

called heart disease). And one study found a causal relationship of

oral infection as a risk factor for stroke.

Evidence Links Periodontal Disease and Heart Health

According to a recent study published in Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association
people who had higher blood levels of certain disease-causing bacteria

in the mouth were more likely to have atherosclerosis of the carotid

artery in the neck. Clogging of the carotid arteries can lead to stroke.

Atherosclerosis, also called "hardening of the arteries," develops when deposits
of fats and other substances in your blood begin to stick to the sides

of your arteries, clogging them like a plugged-up drain. If these plaques

ever block the blood flow completely, you could have a heart attack

or stroke, depending on the location of the blockage.

So what might hardening of the arteries have to do with gum disease?

No one is sure yet. Experts know that bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream
through the gums. These same bacteria have been found clumped in artery

plaques. So one theory is that these bacteria stick to the fatty plaques

in the bloodstream, directly contributing to blockages.

Other possibilities lie in the body's own defense mechanisms against bacteria. One of the
body's natural responses to infection is inflammation. It's possible

that as these oral bacteria travel through your body, they trigger a

similar response, causing the blood cells to swell. This swelling could

then narrow an artery and increase the risk of clots. That inflammation

could be the root of the problem adds to data researchers are gathering

that suggest more and more diseases, including periodontal disease,

heart disease, and arthritis, are partially caused by the body's own

inflammatory response.

But even if periodontal disease isn't actually causing heart disease, the connection could still
be important. For instance, periodontal disease might be an early sign

of cardiovascular problems. Heart disease can be hard to catch early,

because many of the conditions that precede it have no symptoms. You

won't ever feel your arteries hardening or your cholesterol rising.

But you might notice bleeding or painful gums.

What Can You Do To Protect Yourself?

If you're at risk of heart disease, do the obvious:

• Lose weight if you're overweight
• Eat healthy foods
• Exercise most days of the week
• Control any conditions that increase risk, such as diabetes, high cholesterol, or

high blood pressure

• Stop smoking
• Prevent oral health problems by daily effective oral hygiene and visiting your

dentist twice a year.

• If you already have periodontal disease, do not ignore it. Have it treated.

Many cases of periodontal disease can be treated by your general dentist.
More advanced cases will likely require treatment by a periodontist..

According to Dr. Robert L Machen, periodontist., "Gum disease affects 80% of the adult
US population to some degree. With increasing evidence of the

link between gum disease and other systemic diseases, it is all the

more important to practice preventive care if you are healthy and seek

definitive treatment if you are not."

For additional information

of gum disease and treatment options please visit our website www.austinimplants.com.

Periodontal disease (gum disease) is a serious infection that destroys the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth. Gum disease can cause tooth loss and more importantly, affect your general health. If you have untreated gum disease your risk for heart disease and stroke is increased.

Periodontitis is common but largely preventable. Bacteria, that is prevalent in your mouth combine with food particles and cause a sticky film called plaque, that clings to your teeth. Thorough brushing and flossing every day removes most of the plaque but all too often not all of it especially around the gum line. The bacteria in plaque create a toxin that may damage the gums and all supporting tissues by causing them to breakdown.

Factors that increase your chance of developing gum disease:


• Poor oral hygiene

• Diabetes

• Smoking

• Family history

Signs and symptoms of periodontitis can include:

• Swollen gums

• Bright red or purplish gums

• Gums that feel tender when touched but are painless otherwise

• Gums that pull away from your teeth (recede), making your teeth look longer than normal

• New spaces developing between your teeth

• Pus between your teeth and gums

• Bad breath

• Bad taste in your mouth

• Calculus or tarter build-up

• Loose teeth

Gum disease doesn't just affect your oral health. It can affect your overall health in many ways. It has been known to cause:


Cardiovascular disease and Stroke – As bacteria colonies grow the immune system may not be able to keep them in check. The oral bacteria can then enter the blood stream and attack the arteries and cardiovascular system. New research indicates that people with periodontal disease are twice as likely to develop cardiovascular disease.

Bacterial pneumonia – The bacteria in your mouth can be inhaled or aspirated into your lungs thus causing infections and pneumonia.

Increased risks during pregnancy – Studies indicate that women with periodontal disease are more likely to give birth to underweight or premature babies.

Some people are more susceptible than others. This can be reversed, if caught early, and properly treated.