Periodontal Disease Is a Full-Body Problem

Periodontal Disease Is a Full-Body Problem

If your Naples, Florida dentist has diagnosed you with periodontal disease, you could have more at stake than bleeding gums or a lost tooth.
 
Advancements in medical and dental practices and technology has given dentists like Dr. Maria Linden and Dr. Rick Linden the upper hand in dealing with periodontal disease, a chronic inflammation of the gum tissue caused by bacteria that is estimated to affect 743 Gum Diseasemillion people worldwide. In addition to the damage it does on the teeth and gums, it has also shown to be a systemic problem, potentially affecting the entire body.
 

Periodontitis and Heart Disease

There have been several recent industry studies that have shown a connection between the presence of periodontal disease and heart diseases such as endocarditis, coronary artery problems, and stroke. It is believed that the dangerous bacteria that builds up on your teeth can make its way into the bloodstream, carrying it to the arteries and contributing to arterial plaque and blood clot formation. Research showed that people with periodontal disease were twice as likely to have coronary artery disease as well. The amount of other risk factors that go into heart disease make this relationship an ongoing study. 

Periodontitis and Diabetes

Because diabetics are more susceptible to a variety of infections, their association with periodontitis is no surprise for your Naples dentist. More people with diabetes also have periodontal disease than those who do not; diabetics are also more prone to losing teeth. It is believed that periodontal disease can have a negative effect on the regulation of sugar and insulin for the diabetic, and thus these patients should seek treatment at Linden Dental in Naples, Florida at the first sign of periodontal problems.

Periodontitis and Respiratory Health
 
Research is still ongoing, but it has been hypothesized that periodontal disease can put people at risk for respiratory tract disorders such as bronchitis, emphysema, and pneumonia. It has been suggested that inhaling the bacteria that is present on the teeth and gums may introduce it into the lungs and throat, which may cause or worsen respiratory conditions.
 
It is important to keep Drs. Maria and Rick Linden up to date on your health history so that they can give you the best possible advice and treatment. Please contact Linden Dental on any further questions you may have about periodontal disease.