The Infected Gums and Heart Disease Link

There is another study that demonstrates the linkage with periodontal health and heart disease.

A new research study by Italian and U.K. scientists shows that infected gums may be one place. Indeed, proper dental hygiene should reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, stroke and heart disease independently of other measures, such as managing cholesterol.

"It has been long suspected that atherosclerosis is an inflammatory process, and that periodontal disease plays a role in atherosclerosis," said Mario Clerici, M.D., a senior researcher on the study. "Our study suggests that this is the case, and indicates that something as simple as taking good care of your teeth and gums can greatly reduce your risk of developing serious diseases."

So, good dental hygiene and regular professional care afffects MORE than your smile and breath.

DUH

We in the profession have known this anecdotally for some time now and have been informing our patients of the gum disease and general health links.

What is not clear to Flap is whether to treat severe cases of gum (periodontal) disease or simply extract the natural teeth and place implants with prostheses. Might the entire paradigm of periodontal treatment now change?

Less natural teeth may be better for the general health of the patient.

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Technorati Tags: Periodontal Disease, Heart Disease, Dentistry, Dental Implants