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The
Medical Consequences of Periodontal
Infection
Introduction
"People think of gum disease in
terms of their teeth, but they don't
think about the fact that gum
disease is a serious infection that
can release bacteria into the
bloodstream"
Dr. Robert Genco, editor Journal of
Periodontology
Heart Disease & Heart Attack
Recent studies have shown that
people with periodontal disease are
2.7 times more likely to suffer a
heart attack.
Stroke
Studies have also shown that people
with periodontal disease are 3 times
more likely to suffer a stroke.
Pre-Term Childbirth
Women with periodontal disease are
7-8 times more likely to give birth
prematurely to a low birth-weight
baby.
Diabetes
Periodontal infection can raise
blood sugar in diabetic patients.
Periodontal treatment often results
in a reduced need for insulin.
Respiratory Disease
Periodontal infection in the mouth
can be breathed in and increase the
severity of such respiratory
diseases as pneumonia, bronchitis
and emphysema.
Your Bacteria Can Be Transmitted
Research using DNA testing has found
that periodontal bacteria can be
transmitted from parent to child and
spouse to spouse.
Periodontal Infection is a Medical
Problem
Periodontal disease is no longer
thought of as just a dental problem.
Research is finding many
correlations between periodontal
infection and serious medical
problems.
Some Patients are At Higher Risk
These correlations are particularly
serious for those patients who are
in a higher risk category such as:
Those having a personal or family
history of:
Heart Disease
Heart Attack
Stroke
Premature Childbirth
Diabetes
Respiratory Diseases
Those having higher risk lifestyles,
including:
Chronic Stress
Smoker
Sedentary and Overweight
Frequent Colds, Flu etc.
Higher Risk Patients
If you have been told you have
periodontal infection (or have some
of its symptoms), it is vital that
you seek evaluation and treatment.
Read more about
Periodontal Disease and Your Health.
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