Most people understand that proper dental care is important to keep their teeth beautiful, but too many people overlook the fact that dental decay can actually compromise your overall health. The human mouth contains over 25 different species of oral bacteria, which create enamel-eroding acids and dangerous toxins as they thrive in the mouth. Over time, these bacteria can even leach into your bloodstream, creating inflammation throughout the body.
Periodontal Disease Has Been Directly Tied to Heart Disease
For many years, scientists have known that there was a link between periodontal disease and advanced cardiovascular disease, but the cause and effect relationship of gum disease and heart health has been up for debate, until now. Recently, researchers at the University of Amsterdam and VU University Amsterdam studied the medical records of over 60,000 different people to determine whether periodontal disease actually had any bearing on their heart health.
The results of the study were astounding. According to researchers, 95% of the patients who lived with periodontal disease also struggled with some kind of advanced cardiovascular illness. Other studies have also shown that people with periodontal disease are more than twice as likely to develop cardiovascular illnesses. Anatomical studies have even found evidence of oral bacteria in the actual plaques that line the arteries leading to the heart, contributing to inflammation and heart disease.
Treatments for Periodontal Disease Offered By Dr. Silberg
Fortunately, every stage of gum disease is treatable, whether you have early gingivitis or late periodontal disease. Gingivitis, which is characterized by bad breath, tender, swollen, bleeding gums, and mild gum recession can be reversed fairly quickly by focusing on better oral hygiene at home. Mild periodontitis can be treated with deep cleanings, also called pocket reduction surgery and scaling and planing, where the surfaces of the teeth are cleaned below the gumline.
If you have advanced periodontitis, which is characterized by bone loss and even tooth loss, Dr. Silberg can treat your condition using an advanced laser dental treatment called LANAP (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure). During LANAP, a very small periodontal laser probe is inserted into the gingival pockets, and then a beam of light sanitizes the area while simultaneously destroying diseased tissue.
Make An Appointment With Your Periodontist in Pittsburgh Today
If you suspect that you are suffering from gum disease, contact Dr. Silberg’s office today. With a complete focus on patient care and all of the latest gum disease treatments in Pittsburgh, Dr. Silberg and his team can help you to return to oral health.
