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| Frequently Asked Questions |
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About the bacteria.
Over 200 types of bacteria live in your mouth. If you have healthy gums, your saliva removes most of these germs. However, if you have unhealthy gums, you may be at greater risk for heart disease, stroke and diabetes. And if you're a woman, in addition, you're more likely to have pre-term baby.
In periodontal disease, the bacteria builds up between tooth and gum. When the bacteria colonies multiply, any tear in the gum allows bacteria into the blood stream.
According to a current study, 70% of the fatty deposits in the carotid arteries of stroke suffers contain bacteria. Forty percent of this bacteria comes from the mouth.
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Heart disease.
Evidence suggests that people with periodontal disease may be more at risk for heart disease. In addition, they have nearly twice the risk of having a fatal heart attack than people without periodontal disease. In unhealthy gums, the bacteria become mixed up with the blood-clotting cells and form a clump that travels through the blood vessel. The vessel walls are irritated by the clumps of cells and bacteria. This irritation may stimulate the formation of heart-stopping blood clots.
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Diabetes.
It has been known for years that people with diabetes are more likely to have periodontal disease. But what recent research show is that periodontal disease my make it more difficult for people with diabetes to control their blood sugar.
One study showed a reduction in the need for insulin in 7 of 9 diabetic patients being treated for periodontistis.
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Premature Births.
Pregnant women with gum disease are seven to eight times more likely to give birth prematurely and to babies with low-birth weight. It is believed that the periodontal disease causes damaged cells to release inflammation-causing substances associated with premature birth. | |
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What to do.
We believe that healthier gums result in a healthier body. We are here to help. Please ask your dentist, Dr. Sweeney, or Dr. Goldman any questions you have regarding your overall health.
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