Gums - Body Connection

Much recent attention has been placed on the association between various systemic diseases and periodontal disease.  Diabetes, heart disease, pregnancy problems, lung problems, cancers have all been associated with periodontal problems.

Periodontal disease is caused by a bacterial infection.  Antibiotic pills and rinses cannot be used alone to treat this infection because they cannot effectively reach the bacteria under the gums.  When the gums are diseased they weaken and become a portal for bacteria to enter the underlying jaw and from there enter the body.  Periodontal therapy can re-establish an efficient barrier against bacterial infection.