The Link Between Gum Disease & Heart Attacks
By Melinda Winter, RDH @ Gentle Family Dentistry

There is now scientific proof that suggests there is a link between gum disease and other health issues; something we hygienists have always known. When I see a patient with red, spongy, bleeding gums and find out that they’ve had a heart attack, I’m not surprised. I like to explain to my patients the following: “When you have an infection in any part of your body, including your mouth, your immune system has to work harder. As a result you’re always taxing your body.” This infection from toxins and by-products of plaque especially found underneath your gums flow through your bloodstream and can affect your heart. It can also contribute to the development of other diseases such as:

1. Heart Attack
2. Weakened Immune System
3. Diabetes
4. Stroke
5. Lung Disease
6. Preterm, Low Birth Babies
7. Respiratory Disease
8. Osteoporosis
9. Gastric Ulcer

At Gentle Family Dentistry your hygienist is the gum disease specialist. We have specially designed non-surgical gum disease treatment programs tailored to your needs that utilize our advanced laser technology and anesthetic to keep you comfortable. Contact our office to find out how we can help you in your fight against gum disease.

** This article written by Melinda Winter, RDH at Gentle Family Dentistry in New Berlin, WI. Copyright©2008 Gentle Family Dentistry (http://www.gotogentlefamilydentistry.com) All Rights reserved.