A new year is a brand new chance to make better choices, including making decisions that involve your health, your relationships, or how you spend and invest your money. What do all three of these areas have in common? They are all affected by your oral health. Investing in your oral health is an investment in your future.
The amount of research that has been conducted in recent years on the effects of gum disease and your overall health is staggering and the findings are troubling. There are millions of different bacteria that live in your mouth. Certain strains of these bacteria can infect your gum tissue and its underlying supporting bone. This infection is called gum disease and doctors now speculate that it can spread through your bloodstream to infect other systems in your body. If gum disease is not treated, even brushing, flossing, and chewing can kick-start the infection’s journey throughout your entire body.
Systemic Effects of Gum Disease
Studies have shown that gum disease can not only lead to devastating tooth and bone loss, but it also increases the risk of complications from other serious health conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Those with gum disease can be up to two times as likely to have a heart attack. People who suffer with diabetes have a hard time maintaining healthy blood sugar levels if they also suffer from gum disease. Treatment of gum disease has shown to decrease the amount of insulin the patient needs to remain healthy. Gum disease has also been linked to certain cancers and has been shown to increase the risk of low birth-weight babies and premature birth.
Laser Dentistry with Dr. Thomas Bissell
It is vital to catch gum disease early and start treatment immediately. As an experienced periodontist, Dr. Bissell provides leading periodontal treatment to our patients, including laser dentistry using the revolutionary LANAP® protocol, periodontal maintenance, scaling and root planing, and osseous surgery to restore your oral health and your overall health.
Do not put your health at risk any longer. If you have gum disease in Chester, NJ contact our office to schedule your consultation with Dr. Bissell today.
