Regular check ups
Preventive dentistry is the idea of preventing disease rather than treating it.
This is the philosophy of the entire team at Northside Dental and Implant Centre®. Educating the patient to prevent dental disease through the use of photos, brochures, models and other teaching aids.
The success of preventive dentistry is based on regular maintenance and understanding basic dental problems together with commitment and application.
Studies link gum disease with heart disease and stroke
People with periodontal disease (gum disease) are at greater risk of developing heart disease according to recent studies.
Periodontal disease is a serious bacterial disease that destroys the attachment fibres and supporting bone that holds teeth in place.
As bacteria build up around teeth, the classic signs of infection occur (redness, swelling and bleeding). Once infection occurs, the gums begin to separate from the teeth forming pockets. As the disease process continues, the pockets deepen and more supporting ligament is lost until the teeth are eventually lost.
Approximately 20% of adults between 20 and 50 years of age, and 40% of adults over 50 years have periodontal disease.
In a recent study, researchers found significantly higher levels of bacterial toxins in the bloodstream of patients with severe periodontal disease.
In another study, there was direct correlation between patients suffering heart attacks and those with periodontal gum disease. The researchers found that people with periodontal (gum) disease were almost twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease as those without periodontal disease.
Additional studies have pointed to a relationship between periodontal disease and stroke. In a study looking at possible links, people diagnosed with acute cerebrovascular ischemia (stroke) were more likely to have an oral infection than those in a control group.
If it has been more than six months since you have seen a dentist, you should contact the surgery to make an appointment for a routine examination.
