The Connection

For years, dentists have tried to prevent patients from cavities, gum disease, infections of the teeth and infections of the surrounding tissues of the teeth. Did you know that by preventing some of these issues, dentists are also helping prevent patients from other health issues such as elevated blood sugar levels in diabetic patients, increased blood pressure or more pain in arthritic patients? When there is inflammation from gum(periodontal) disease, or inflammation from an infected tooth, this increases inflammation in other parts of the body. This is because your immune system is working hard to protect the body from infection. The immune system does this by sending healing cells, with the help of blood, to an area to protect it from an infection but the side-effect to this, is swelling and inflammation. This means higher blood sugar levels in the diabetic patient, an increase in blood pressure and more inflammation in joints for the arthritic patient.  So what can people do about it?  People can start with good home care for their teeth and gums.  This means brushing a minimum of twice a day for 2 minutes each time you brush, making sure to remove bacteria at the gum line and flossing once a day to remove bacteria from between the teeth. Brushing and flossing alone will not do the trick. People should also see a dentist regularly to have a routine dental cleaning with a licensed dental hygienist (LDH).  An LDH is trained to remove bacteria from below the gum line where your tooth brush cannot reach, thus, helping to prevent infection or even detecting an infection early.

At Metropolitan Periodontists, P.A. we specialize in the treatment of gum disease. We use advanced technology to treat patients with active infection or chronic inflammation in their gum tissue.  Our hygienist is the only hygienist in the State of Minnesota to use a camera below the gum line.  She can see the hardened bacteria on the roots of the teeth and she is able to remove it with confidence for our patients. We also use a laser to treat gum disease which is more comfortable for patients than the traditional surgery done to treat gum disease.  If you or someone you know has been told that you have gum disease, schedule an appointment with us.  We would be happy to help you become a healthier you.