Dr. Sanjay Gupta says, “…having chronic periodontal or gum disease is like living with a low-grade infection that can be linked to heart disease, diabetes, and some kinds of cancer.”

For every person who does not have health insurance, there are two people who do not have dental insurance.

What I know for sure is that it’s all connected.

Saundra Goodman
Got Teeth? A Survivor’s Guide
How to keep your teeth or live without them.
www.gotteethguide.com

Research shows that stress can make it difficult for our bodies to fight all infections, including periodontal disease and heart disease. Teeth grinding is an indication of stress.

The following techniques may help you stop grinding your teeth:

1. Find ways to reduce your stress level and relax.
2. Avoid or limit the amount of caffeine and alcohol you consume.
3. Ask your dentist about the use of a night guard.
4. If an abnormal bite is the cause of teeth grinding, your dentist can treat the improper alignment. [Read more →]

Frederic Pashkow, M.D., University of Hawaii’s School of Medicine, says that periodontal disease is now considered the second leading risk factor for heart disease after smoking.

Studies by the American Academy of Periodontology, the National Institute of Health (NIH), and the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research show that people with adult periodontitis may have an increased risk of having a fatal heart attack. They are more likely to be diagnosed with cardiovascular disease caused by bacteria from the mouth increasing clotting problems in the cardiovascular system. [Read more →]