Today, almost everyone is striving to live healthier lives. With the increasing awareness about the links between oral health and healthy bodies, there is a paradigm shift in the way patients and consumers are taking action to live longer and the way healthcare professionals assess and manage patient risks. Scientific evidence suggests possible links between periodontal disease and other systemic conditions that may negatively impact overall wellness. Bacteria associated with periodontal diseases have been linked to heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and low birth weight in babies.

The bacteria may leave the oral cavity and enter the bloodstream through veins and arteries, using them like a highway system to link to other parts of the body. In the presence of gum disease, normal daily tasks such as chewing or brushing your teeth may allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream. This can potentially lead to poor general health. Our immune system responds by sending white blood cells to battle the bacteria and releases chemicals that create an inflammatory response. Inflammation can damage tissues. Scientists now understand that inflammation also causes or complicates many diseases.