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Nearly 16 million American adults suffer from one or more types of cardiovascular disease.1
There is growing evidence that the infection associated with periodontal disease can travel throughout your body. Some studies suggest the body's response to this infection can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as stroke, heart attack, coronary artery disease and atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries).
Taking preventive measures is one way to help decrease your risk. Talk to your dentist about your risks, and remember to follow a smile-friendly diet and keep up with your dental duo—rigorous home care and regular dentist visits.
Periodontal Disease - An infection of the tissues that support teeth. There are two types:
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- Gingivitis - an infection of the gums around the teeth
- Periodontitis - more severe than gingivitis because the infection has spread to the bone that supports the teeth
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SYMPTOMS:
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Bleeding while brushing or flossing
- Gums that pull away from teeth
- Loss or separating of teeth
- Red, white or swollen areas of mouth
- Persistent bad breath
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For more information on these topics, visit the American Heart Association.
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1. American Heart Association, Inc., 2007.
2. American Society of Periodontology, 2005.
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