Millions of Americans May Be at Risk for Serious Health Problems Due to Periodontal (Gum) Disease According to Study
(The American Academy of Periodontology) ­ A new analysis of recent research has revealed gum disease may represent a far more serious threat to the health of millions of Americans than previously realized. These studies found that periodontal (gum) infection may contribute to the development of heart disease, the nation's number one cause of death, increase the risk of premature, underweight births, and pose a serious threat to people whose health is already compromised due to diabetes and respiratory diseases.

"It seems clear that gum disease, far from being just an oral health problem, actually represents a significant health risk to millions of people," said Robert Genco, D.D.S., Ph.D., editor-in-chief of the Journal of Periodontology.

"Periodontal disease is characterized by inflammation and bacterial infections of the gums surrounding the teeth. The bacteria that area associated with periodontal disease can travel into the bloodstream to other parts of the body, and that puts health at risk," "People think of gum disease in terms of their teeth, but they don't think about the fact that gum disease is a serious infection that can release bacteria into the bloodstream. The end result could mean additional health risks for people whose health is already affected by other diseases ­ or lead to serious complications like heart disease."