Association Between Coronary and Periodontal Disease

Research is being conducted to assist health car professionals in further understanding how periodontal diseases are directly related to cardiovascular disease. A study published in the Journal of Periodontology, shed light on why those people with periodontal diseases have a higher risk of coronary artery disease. The result of the study showed that periodontitis in cardiac patients was significantly more frequent than in non cardiac patients." The study also showed that 91 percent of the cardiac patients suffered with moderate to severe periodontal disease, while this proportion was 61 percent in non cardiac patients. It appears that periodontal disease influences the occurrence and the severity of coronary diseases and increases the risk of a stroke or heart attack. One theory is periodontal pathogens could enter the blood stream, invade the blood vessel walls and ultimately cause atherosclerosis, a multi-stage process that is sent into motion when the cells that line the arteries are damaged from smoking, toxic substance abuse or high blood pressure. The second theory is based on several studies that determine periodontal infections that may correlate with increased plasma levels of inflammation, creating blood clots. There is still much research that is needed to be done to understand the link between periodontal diseases and systemic disease such as cardiovascular and difficult to control diabetes. The data does show the importance of regular periodontal maintenance visits to ensure an healthy, disease free mouth.

GETTING WHITENING RIGHT!

What causes your teeth to discolor? The top stain makers are red wine, coffee, dark colored soft drinks, tea, tobacco, and age. Certain medications can also effect color. The antibiotics tetracycline can cause permanent tooth discoloration. Genetics also play a role in determining tooth color. Some people simply have naturally brighter enamel. How will your teeth respond to bleaching? It will depend on all of the factors mentioned above as well as their hue. More and more of our patients have been whitening their smiles with tremendous results. Give us a call for information on quick and easy bleaching. Mention this article and receive a special discount. Together we will guarantee you a brighter whiter smile.

About Dr. Mangia

Dr. Guy Mangia, a graduate of USC School of Dentistry, Phi Beta Kappa and Omicron Kappa Upsilon (top 10%), has been practicing dentistry in the San Fernando Valley for over 25 years. He is a member of the San Fernando Valley Dental Society, California Dental Association, and American Dental Association. He is an active participant of the San Fernando Valley Implant Study Group, he is an alumni of the internationally renouned Pankey Institute , and the Center for Advanced Dental Studies. He is also very active in community activities including being an active member in the Van Nuys Rotary for over 24 years.