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Periodontal (Gum) Disease
Did you know that there is a serious link between gum disease, heart attack and stroke?
Yes, evidence is mounting relating gum disease to a variety of health concerns; some that are life threatening... including stroke whose risk doubles in the presence of gum disease.
Even healthy looking teeth may have gum disease that only your dentist or hygienist can detect with a simple exam. But here are some warning signs you can watch out for.
Early Warning Signs
- Gums that bleed when you brush your teeth
- Gums that are red, swollen or tender
- Gums that are pulled away from teeth
- Pus between teeth and gums when gums are pressed
- Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
- Change in the way teeth fit together when you are biting
- Any changes in fit of partial dentures
- Persistent bad breath
Dr. Rickerby and his dental team can help you better understand periodontal disease and how to prevent it. They can quickly and painlessly check and monitor the condition of your gums. If your exam shows signs of infection, your dentist can (1) suggest a course of treatment that will help stop any further damage and (2) design a homecare regimen to meet your specific needs.
If you suspect that you have gum disease contact us for an appointment.
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Definitions
Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums and is considered a relatively mild form of periodontal disease.
Periodontitis is a severe infection involving the gums, membranes at the base of the teeth and the supporting bone and is the major cause of tooth loss in adults.
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Gum Disease Linked to 2-1 Risk of Stroke
Periodontal disease is one of the most common human infections (found in over one half the adult population). And, recent studies find that infection is highly associated with increases in risk for heart disease and stroke.
The relationship between gum disease and stroke is even stronger than the link between gum disease and heart disease. In fact, people with severe gum disease are at twice the risk of suffering a stroke than those with good oral health says a study conducted by University at Buffalo* researchers.
The 2 to 1 increased risk was found for the most common type of stroke-those caused by blocked arteries-among men and women, regardless of race.
Periodontal disease is thought to increase the risk of stroke in much the same way it increases the risk of heart attack.
Technically speaking, this is what researchers say occurs...
Bacteria from gum pockets enter the bloodstream where they promote an inflammatory response causing cells to multiply in the blood vessels and the liver with an increase in the production of clotting factors. Bacteria also may attack the vessel lining and damage endothelial cells.
Further, several periodontal bacteria can blood clotting aggregation and may promote plaque formation that can cause blockages that lead to stroke. Periodontal bacteria have been found in samples of carotid arterial plaque removed during surgery.
*The study was supported by grants from the National Institutes of Health and by a Buswell Fellowship from the UB medical school. Results of the study appear in the October 2000 issue of the Archives of Internal Medicine.
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