Periodontist - Periodontal disease and general health in General Dentistry

London Dentist Dr Hans Lock, DS MDS about peridontal disease and general health.

Want to find out more about how a periodontist can protect your health?A periodontist can do more than prevent and diagnose periodontal disease and give you dental implants. If you value your overall health as well as your oral health, it’s a good idea to visit your periodontist for regular evaluations and health checks. And of course evaluation by your periodontist is crucial if you exhibit signs of periodontal disease.

Periodontist - Oral health research

Research shows that infections and disease in the mouth can have a direct impact on the rest of your bodily health. Links between gum disease and other diseases have been explored, including:• An increased risk of heart disease• A higher likelihood of strokes• Diabetes• Premature births• Respiratory diseases

Mouth and body

Even though you may think when you visit your periodontist that a bacterial infection in your mouth is just that – a problem in your mouth - infections can however impact on your overall health and should always be taken seriously.

Overall health and your periodontist

Respiratory disease – although more research is needed, mouth infections are associated with the increased risk of respiratory infection.Heart disease – you should see your periodontist if you have heart problems, there are several theories linking periodontal disease with heart disease – some believe that the oral bacteria can affect the heart when it enters the bloodstream, contributing to clot formation. Research shows you are twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease if you have periodontal disease.Pregnancy – if you have periodontal disease you are seven times more likely to have a premature baby. All infections pose a risk to pregnancy and it’s important you see a periodontist for your overall well being.Diabetes – You are more likely to suffer from diabetes too and periodontal disease can complicate diabetes by making it harder to control blood sugar. You should be evaluated by a periodontist if you suffer from diabetes.

Evaluation by your periodontist

Like any problem, ignoring it won’t help and ignoring it certainly won’t make it go away. If you suspect you have any sort of gum disease you should book an appointment with a periodontist sooner rather than later. Sometimes the only way to detect periodontal disease is through an evaluation by your periodontist. If you already suffer from heart disease, diabetes, respiratory disease or osteoporosis, you should already have regular check ups with a periodontist.The Mermaid Dental Clinic offers a full range of dental services including periodontist work. With great patient care, the clinic offers the latest technology for painless and superior results. Situated in the West End, the heart of London, we are trained and equipped to treat every aspect of your dental needs with professionalism and expertise. You can make an appointment by calling 0207 580 1001.

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