Gum Disease Can Lead to Heart Disease - New Technology to Battle Gum Disease

May 11, 2010 - PRLog -- Gum Disease Can Lead to Heart Disease

First the bad news. Recent medical research has caused many doctors to reach a startling conclusion: gum disease and heart disease are linked. And, since heart disease can be fatal, it is clear that gum disease can actually kill you.

The American Academy of Periodontology recently reported that “[Recent] studies found that periodontal infection may contribute to the development of heart disease, the nation’s number one cause of death, increase the risk of premature, underweight births, and pose a serious threat to people whose health is already compromised due to diabetes and respiratory diseases.”

Periodontal disease is characterized by inflammation and bacterial infection of the gums surrounding the teeth. Bacteria can travel into the bloodstream and then to other parts of the body, putting your general health at risk. One of the worst places these bacteria can travel to is the heart.

Now the Good News

With mild periodontal disease, there are very effective NON-surgical procedures which, coupled with improved dental hygiene, can virtually halt the spread of the disease in its tracks. Essentially, the pockets around the teeth containing bacteria must be cleaned. This, too, is usually covered under most dental insurance plans. Then, of course, the patient must keep them clean with regular brushing and flossing.

New Technology to Battle Gum Disease

For advanced periodontal disease there’s a new weapon available to dentists – LASER Periodontal Therapy or LPT ™.

•   It’s about as easy as erasing a blackboard — there’s no cutting and no suturing.
•   There's much less discomfort with LASER PERIODONTAL THERAPY than with standard surgery -- during and after the procedure.
•   It takes less time than traditional surgery. All it takes is two visits to the dentist and two follow up visits.
•   LPT gives better, longer-lasting results. In fact, 98% of LPT treated patients remain stable after five years, while only 5% reportedly remain stable after surgery.

It’s becoming more and more clear that paying attention to the health of your gums and teeth can have a very positive effect on your overall health and well being!

For more information on gum disease and its treatment call Dr. Herb Salisbury at 850-784-0700. Or visit www.panamacitydental.com

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