It is becoming more evident each day that oral health is integrally linked to a person’s
 overall health. While dentists have long understood that periodontal (gum) disease 
 can lead to tooth loss, new evidence suggests it can affect more than just a person’s
 oral health.

 Recent scientific research indicates periodontal disease may be linked to a variety of
 universal health conditions, including heart disease. Some studies published in the Journal
 of Periodontology suggest the amount of bacteria in subgingival plaque might be
 associated with an increased risk for heart disease.

 One study examined 150 individuals with periodontal diseases and found the total
 number of periodontal bacteria in subgingival plaque was higher in those who had 
 suffered a heart attack. Another study revealed DNA from different kinds of periodontal
 bacteria appeared in participants’ heart arteries. Finally, a research team discovered that
 91 percent of patients with cardiovascular disease suffered from moderate to severe
 periodontitis, compared to 66 percent in non cardiac patients.

 Continuing research seems to support the theory that bacteria found in the space
 between the gum and tooth (periodontal pocket) can enter the bloodstream through the
 inflamed gum tissue, potentially contributing to the development of other diseases.

 Such findings further researchers’ understanding and help substantiate what they have
 long known, said Dr. Constantine Stamatelakys, a periodontist and WDA president. “If
 there is a sterile pathway, such as a blood vessel, near a periodontally infected area, the
 bacteria can cause inflammation in the gums. This opens up pores in surrounding blood
 vessels, providing the potential for bacteria to enter the bloodstream and travel to other
 parts of the body,” he said.

 Periodontal disease is a serious bacterial infection that destroys attachment fibers and
 supporting bone that hold a person’s teeth in his or her mouth.

 Signs a person has periodontal disease include persistent bad breath, gums that bleed
 when teeth are brushed, red, swollen and tender gums, gums that have pulled away from
 the teeth, loose or separating teeth, pus between the gum and tooth and a change in
 one’s bite.

 It is possible, however, to have periodontal disease and no warning signs or symptoms.
 This is why regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations are critical. Good oral
 health habits, including daily brushing and flossing, are essential to prevent periodontal
 disease or keep it from advancing.
 
 The U.S. Surgeon General recognizes oral health as an integral part of a person’s total
 health, with the dentist being the primary oral health care provider. Periodontal disease
 can only be diagnosed and successfully treated with the proper intervention of a licensed
 dentist and qualified dental staff. Prevention is, and always will be, central to good oral
 health. Preventing dental disease can help people take better care of their overall health
 as well as their oral health.

 The WDA launched a new healthy choices message – “Brush and Floss or Else…Risk 
 Gum Disease and Heart Disease” in January of this year to help educate adults about the
 importance of oral health to overall physical well-being.

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