Physicians and dentists now know that gum disease and heart disease are linked. Many physicians, however, think that the oral cavity and what dentists do, has nothing to do with them. Obviously, the mouth is part of the human body and may be the number one source of infections entering the body. Gum disease causes the gum tissues to swell up and lose effectiveness in acting as a barrier against bacteria entering the blood. Once bacteria enter the blood stream, they can cause untold problems.

          Gum disease and heart disease are connected since oral bacteria enter the blood and can attach to the fat and cholesterol rich plaques on the inside of the blood vessels to the heart. This may facilitate the formation of clots which can lead to obstruction of the blood flow to the heart. The oral bacterial may also facilitate the thickening of the walls of the blood vessels to the heart this can lead to a heart attack. It is known that patients with periodontal disease have two times higher an incidence of coronary artery disease than patients with healthy gums.

          Gum disease and heart disease may be related by a common abnormal inflammatory response. Inflammation normally occurs around infections such as periodontal disease. The inflammation in the gums causes an elevated level of C-reactive proteins which enter the blood and cause injury to the heart arteries. It pays to keep your teeth and gums healthy!

          It is evident that there is a connection between gum disease and heart disease. This makes it treating and eliminating gum problems very important to your overall health. Hopefully, the communication between dentists and physicians will open up and cardiologists will begin recommending periodontal care as a support therapy for patients at risk of heart disease and stroke. The dentists of the Atlanta Dental Group PC are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. If you need gum treatment, you're welcome to join our family of patients. If you wish to visit with Dr. Padolsky, call 404-874-7428. It's your first step in achieving a happy and healthy life.