New Studies Link Periodontal Disease and Heart Disease
By Dr. Richard Bullock, DDS, FACP

Research published in the New England Journal of Medicine has revealed the most persuasive evidence to date that the presence of periodontal disease doubles your risk of a heart attack. Periodontal disease is an inflammatory/ infective disease whose progression relies on known pathogens (bacteria) and the body’s response to those pathogens through an inflammatory process.
           
The body’s inflammatory response to known periodontal bacteria results in inflammation in the blood vessels lining the heart which contributes to the build up of fatty deposits inside the heart arteries. Proof of this causal relationship came when it was discovered in numerous cases that the same oral bacteria which cause gum disease were found in the fatty deposits inside the heart arteries.
           
The good news is that additional research has shown that non surgical periodontal treatment can reduce the body’s inflammatory response and provide a significant level of protection from these far reaching problems.
           
Usage of systemic antibiotics (Amoxicillin, Tetracycline, Clindamycin) combined with scaling and root planning (deep cleaning), has shown success in controlling the periodontal pathogens.
           
A new microsphere technology allows delivery of an antibiotic, (Minocycline) directly into the infected area of the gums. The simple, painless placement of the antibiotics results in the death of 90% of the major periodontal pathogens over a 21 day period. The treated pockets generally show reduced depth, reduced swelling and reduced bleeding.
           
Oral rinses which contained .12% chlorhexidine have also shown benefits in reducing gingival bleeding and inflammation particularly when used in conjunction with deep cleaning and either systemic or localized antibiotics.
           
Proper home care (brushing and flossing) remains the first mandatory step to oral periodontal health. Advancements in mechanical toothbrushes such as sonic-powered, soft-bristled brushes have made achieving proper oral hygiene easier. Technological advances in antibiotics therapy (both systemic and localized) and in ultrasonic tooth cleaning devices (those used at home and those used by your dentist) provide dentists and their patients with non-surgical treatment options.
The new treatments are easy, cost effective and provide extended antibiotic coverage targeted directly at the specific periodontal pathogens responsible for gum disease, which are now clearly identified. These treatments result in not only a healthy, fresh mouth with stable teeth but they also significantly reduce your risk of heart disease. Consult your dentist and request a periodontal exam and information about these beneficial new treatments.

Dr. Richard Bullock can be reached at University Park Dentistry at 760-340-5107