It is estimated that nearly 80 percent of American adults suffer from some form of gum disease, putting them at a higher risk for a variety of potentially life-threatening health problems. At Papageorgiou Dental Associates in Natick, MA, Dr. Christina Papageorgiou performs comprehensive periodontal therapy to help reduce the risk of associated complications before they become even more serious.
Gum Disease & Systemic Health
Though the thought of periodontal disease typically evokes images of bleeding gums and eventual tooth loss, the truth is that this common affliction actually affects the entire body. Bacteria that accumulates around and beneath gingival tissue can seep into the blood stream where it can wreak havoc on other tissues and various organs. When left untreated for any extended period of time, gum disease can contribute to the following health complications in men and women of all ages:
- Cancer, namely of the blood and pancreas
- Respiratory illness, including pneumonia and pulmonary hypertension
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Preterm birth – and resulting low birth weight – in mothers with periodontal disease
- Complications in patients who also have diabetes
- Coronary artery disease
- Increased risk of stroke and heart attack
Fortunately, the use of periodontal therapy significantly reduces a patient’s risk of suffering from these and other medical conditions when implemented in a timely manner.
Restore Health & Vitality to Your Smile
If you or someone in your family is affected by any of the common symptoms of gum disease, it’s time to take the first step toward improved oral and overall health with periodontal therapy. Contact our office in Natick, MA to see how Dr. Papageorgiou can help you reclaim your smile today. We proudly serve patients from throughout Natick, as well as from the surrounding communities of Sudbury, Wellesley, Framingham, Wayland and beyond. We look forward to welcoming you to our dental care family!
While periodontal disease gets the majority of its reputation for sore, bleeding gums and a greater chance of tooth loss, the fact of the matter is that this common infection affects the entire body in many unexpected ways. When left untreated for an extended period of time, advanced gum disease can contribute to a variety of potentially life-threatening health problems. Only professional periodontal therapy can completely reverse the disease and therefore lower your chances of developing these complications.