Heart Disease
Certain substances produced by bacteria found in periodontal disease can cause inflammation of the walls of blood vessels in susceptible individuals. These areas of inflammation can cause blood cells to clump together, and form a clot inside the blood vessel. If the blood flow to the heart muscle is blocked, the muscle dies and you can have a “heart attack.” This clot can break away and travel to the brain where a blockage may occur thereby causing brain tissues to die. This is called a “stroke.” Call to schedule a screening appointment, especially if you have a family history of heart disease. Also patients with a history of rheumatic heart disease must keep their mouths healthy and take antibiotics prior to most dental visits.
Diabetes
It is a well known fact that the diabetic patient heals slower than the non-diabetic patient. New evidence suggests that the bacteria in a diabetic patient produces substances which destroy bone and gum tissue at a faster rate than in the non-diabetic patient.
Low Birth Weight
The bacteria associated with periodontal disease release products into the blood stream that can cause premature muscle contractions of the uterus, resulting in the fetus being born before full term. Studies show that periodontal disease bacteria were found in much higher levels in the mothers of pre-term, low birth weight babies. Women expecting to become pregnant should have their periodontal health checked and corrected if necessary before becoming pregnant, as many obstetricians will not allow periodontal therapy during pregnancy.
Halitosis
Halitosis, better known as bad breath is similar to other body odors. It’s generated by bacteria. Periodontal treatment allows you to clean away these bacteria. 85% of bad breath originates in the oral cavity and proper periodontal cleaning should eliminate this bad breath or odor.