Periodontal or Gum Disease can have implication that go beyond your oral cavity. Recent studies indicate that there is an increased risk of cardiovascular disease in patients with inflammation of the gums. There is an additional risk to expectant mothers include pre-term delivery, and the potential for less than ideal results from fertility treatments. There is also a synergistic relationship between diabetes and gum disease - they make controlling each other harder.

It's not just about losing your teeth anymore.

Pregnancy has been shown to enhance gum inflammation; more recently, studies have shown that periodontal disease has been indicated as a risk factor in adverse pregnancy outcomes. Having Periodontal Disease increases the risk of delivering a premature baby. 

World Workshop in Periodontology - American Academy of Periodontology July 2003

"Bottom-Line Summary"

"Although periodontal disease is often considered a localized infection, there is increasing evidence linking periodontitis to systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, respiratory diseases and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Evidence suggests that periodontitis can be a systemic exposure that may contribute to the development or progression of other diseases and conditions. Periodontal intervention may prevent the onset or progression of atherosclerosis-induced diseases, such as myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke and may help to prevent adverse preganacy outcomes."

Martin C. Nager, D.M.D.

Warwick, Rhode Island