Manhattan, KS -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/30/2015 -- Periodontal disease, more commonly known as gum disease, is a quiet destructive infection associated with as many as five hundred different kinds of bacteria that are leaving behind their waste in an individual's mouth every day. Yesterday, dentists and dental hygienists strived to save teeth with regular cleanings.

As the dental and medical communities have become aware, there is much more to be taken into consideration. If the patient has an inflammatory condition like periodontal disease, he is in danger of developing more serious problems, such as heart problems, diabetes, or rheumatoid arthritis. As Dr. Gilsdorf and Dr. Guess manage the health of their patient's teeth, they are not just saving teeth; they are also saving lives.

"As gum disease continues unchecked, enzymes excreted by the bacteria slowly destroy the gum tissue. This allows the bacteria to access the bloodstream. The bacteria and their by-products cause an inflammatory response throughout the body. For anyone with a weakened immune system, this negative factor is likely to have a complicating effect on their pre-existing medical conditions," remarks Dr. Gilsdorf.

Although diabetics are more prone to periodontal disease, we haven't been sure if diabetes causes periodontitis or vice versa. In 1993, researchers at Columbia University's School of Public Health studied over 9,000 adults who showed no symptoms of diabetes. By the end of the study, over 800 of them became diabetics. Dr. Guess adds, "It was found that if a person had advanced periodontal disease, they were almost twice as likely to contract diabetes within the following two decades."

During an appointment with Smiles By Design, the hygienists treat gum disease, therefore lessening the chances for developing heart disease. The way gum disease affects the heart is that periodontal disease triggers a series of chemical events that brew up an inflammatory response across the entire body. When plaque lining the arteries causes the arteries to become inflamed, blood clots can form, bringing about a heart attack or stroke.

Dr. Gilsdorf and Dr. Guess conclude, "It is not enough to just keep watch on suspicious spots on the gums. Instead, attacking gum disease aggressively will be a critical action step in maintaining, and improving our patients' overall health and their enjoyment of life."

If you suspect you have gum disease call 785-370-0940 and make an appointment.