Monmouth County Dentist Links Heart Attacks With Gum Disease

PRLog (Press Release) – Apr 15, 2008 – More than two-thirds of Americans over the age of 35 have some form of gum disease, according to the FDA. A recent poll of people 35 and older by Harris Interactive Inc. discovered that more than half of the people surveyed knew very little about gum disease, its symptoms, possible treatments, or, worse, its consequences. Almost half of Americans don’t have regular dental checkups. Not surprisingly, then, gum disease is the leading cause of the loss of teeth among adults. In fact, a report by the Surgeon General called Americans' bad oral health a "silent epidemic" and demanded a national effort to improve oral health among all Americans.

“The good news is that in most people gum disease is preventable,” reports Michael Bixby, DMD. “Attention to daily oral hygiene like brushing and flossing, coupled with professional dental cleanings twice a year, could be all that's needed to prevent gum disease--and even reverse the early stages—which should help you keep your teeth your entire lifetime.”

While gum disease is not curable, it can be controlled. Symptoms of gum disease are not obvious. There usually is no pain involved, so the condition can go a long time without being noticed. As time goes on, however, bone is lost around the teeth. This can lead to the loss of teeth. It’s a little like having a house built on a swamp. You can have a nice house but the foundation stinks.

“Treating gum disease helps prevent further bone loss,” says Bixby, “By removing the bacteria that gathers around the tooth and allowing the gums to heal.”

Beyond the teeth, gum disease is linked with a number of health risks:

1. Heart Disease- People with gum disease have twice the risk for a fatal heart attack and are more likely to be diagnosed with heart disease. Bacteria from diseased gums can enter the blood stream irritating the blood vessels and increasing the chance of blood clots.

2. Respiratory infection- Gum disease is a major factor for bacteria entering the lungs. This can lead to Chronic Lung disease which leads to less lung function.

3. Diabetes- A diabetic is four times more likely to develop gum disease. Plus, having gum disease impairs the body’s ability to make and use insulin. This makes your diabetes harder to control.

The moral of the story is: gum health is a very important factor in overall health. If you have any questions about the health of your gums you should ask your dentist. It can save your life. If you don’t have a dental home, you are welcome to call Atlantic Center for Advanced Dentistry in Red Bank at (732-224-1160) and schedule an appointment to discuss your unique situation. See our relaxing environment at http://www.cosmeticdentists-nj.com/home/top-monmouth-cou ....

If you would like to learn more about gum disease prevention visit our website at http://www.cosmeticdentists-nj.com.

The Atlantic Center for Advanced Dentistry in Red Bank, NJ specializes in porcelain veneers, dental implants and cosmetic makeovers. We offer specialized oral sedation relaxation dentistry for patients with special concerns and TMD/TMJ dental treatment.

Michael J. Bixby, DMD, FAGD is a General, Cosmetic and Neuromuscular/TMJ Dentist, practicing at the Atlantic Center for Advanced Dentistry in Little Silver. He can be reached at: 732-224-1160, Mike@DrBixby.com or visit http://www.cosmeticdentists-nj.com/home/dr-bixby-and-tea ....