Most people know that maintaining oral health is vital in achieving overall health.  Studies continue to reveal why we should pay close attention to the health of our teeth and gums.  This research proves the link between periodontal disease and these common diseases:

Heart Disease: The incidence of heart disease is about twice as high in people with periodontal disease.  One recent study describes the association between heart disease and gum disease to be at least as strong as the linkage of heart disease to cholesterol, body weight or smoking.

Cancer: Men with periodontal disease are 14 percent more likely to develop cancer than men with healthy gums.  Research has uncovered that these men may be:

49 percent more likely to develop kidney cancer

54 percent more likely to develop pancreatic cancer

30 percent more likely to develop blood cancer

The same bacteria found in periodontal disease have also been linked to a weakened immune system, diabetes, stroke, lung disease, premature low-birth-weight infants, respiratory disease, osteoporosis and gastric ulcers.

Second to the common cold, dental diseases are the most common diseases affecting the American adult population.  In fact, more than 75 percent of Americans over the age of 35 have some form of periodontal disease.

If you value your overall health, a periodontal evaluation is a good idea.  Sometimes the only way to detect periodontal disease is through a professional evaluation as this is a very subtle and often painless disease.  A periodontal evaluation may be especially important if you have a high risk for periodontal disease; have heart disease, diabetes, respiratory disease or osteoporosis; are thinking of becoming pregnant; or, have a family member with periodontal disease, as these bacteria can pass through saliva and put children and couples at risk contracting the periodontal disease of another family member.  Call today – Family Dentistry, PC, offers complimentary periodontal evaluations and x-rays with your initial cleaning appointment.

The American Dental Association has published this list of periodontal disease early warning signs:

• Gums that bleed when you brush

• Gums that are red, swollen or tender

• Gums that pull away from  your teeth

• Pus between teeth and gums

• Loose or separating permanent teeth

• Change in the way your teeth fit together when biting

• Change in fit of partial dentures

• Persistent bad breath

Cannon Doan, D.D.S., graduated from the University of Tennessee Center for the Health Sciences School of Dentistry in June of 1984. He opened his preventive-oriented practice in October of 1984.