People with periodontal disease-bacterially-induced chronic inflammatory disease of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, may have nearly twice the risk of a fatal heart attack or stroke, recent studies suggest. Also called gum disease, affects almost 50% of adults, many who do not know they have it as it is usually painless in the earlier stages of the disease is usually painless.
The connection with cardiovascular disease is under continual investigation. It is known that gum disease increases the body’s inflammatory burden which in turn may damage the blood vessels of the heart. According to Ken Kornman DDS, PhD, editor in chief of the Journal of Periodontology, “There are multiple studies that show people with untreated gum disease have elevated levels of inflammatory markers linked to heart disease and stroke such as C-reactive protein.”
Periodontal disease can be diagnosed early and treated which is good news for everyone.
If you have any questions regarding gum disease or dental care, please feel free to contact our office, 713-668-2289.
Ronald W. Konig DDS, FAGD, LVIF
