Due to the chronic nature of gum diseases, which are infections, and involvement of the immune system, these infections affect the overall health of an individual. It has been shown that these oral bacteria enter the blood system and are carried throughout the body causing a number of systemic diseases.

CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE

is one of the most common medical conditions in patients with periodontitis. Patients with periodontitis have a two times increased risk of heart disease and are three times more likely to suffer a stroke. There is a two times greater likelihood of a fatal heart attack in patients with periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is as much as a risk factor as smoking, hypertension (high blood pressure), and high cholesterol!

DIABETES PATIENTS

are much more at risk for periodontal disease than individuals without diabetes. Studies show that the relationship between periodontal disease and diabetes goes both ways; periodontal disease makes it more difficult for people with diabetes to control their blood sugar. This puts the diabetic person at an increased risk for diabetic complications. Controlling periodontal disease helps patients control their diabetes.

PREMATURE BIRTHS

are a risk factor for women with periodontal disease. Considering periodontal diseases are for the most part, preventable and treatable, the literature supports the importance of addressing periodontal disease promptly in women of childbearing age. Mothers with periodontal disease have about a 4 times greater chance of having pre-term, low birth weight babies than mothers without periodontal disease.

RESPIRATORY DISEASES, ARTHRITIS

and a host of other diseases are showing similar responses as those discussed above to the effects of periodontal disease.

If you have been diagnosed as having gingivitis or periodontitis, do yourself a favor and purchase an oral irrigator, use it daily, and visit your dentist and hygienist routinely. The benefits of doing this are exponential!