Well, listen to your dentist. That’s right, your dentist!

Dr. Steve Gustafson attended a seminar last week where he learned some very interesting news: A recent study showing that periodontal disease is more of an indicator of heart disease than high cholesterol. There are many facets to the study conducted by the American Academy of Periodontology (Dec. 1999), but what struck Dr. Steve as incredible was that gum (periodontal) disease and tooth loss was associated with an increased incidence of coronary heart disease.

“They haven’t pinpointed exactly why there is a link between the two diseases,” Dr. Steve says, “but it confirms that there is definitely a link between your dental health and your health overall.”

Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can destroy bone and other tissues that support your teeth. It develops when a sticky film of bacteria (we know it as plaque) builds up on your teeth.

The American Dental Association confirms that there is a link between this destructive bacteria of gum disease and cardiovascular problems, bacterial pneumonia and even low-birth-weight infants.

What should the average person draw from all this new information. There are even more reasons to lead a healthier lifestyle and pay attention to your dental health.

Smoking is the worst activity that leads to developing gum disease, Dr. Steve says. “They don’t know why, but it might have to do with the increased bacteria in the mouth and the decrease in oxygen.”

Genetics is also a big factor. “There is definitely some truth to the saying, “Bad teeth run in the family,’” he says. “You might inherit a weaker immune system that makes you more susceptible to gum disease or some family’s enamel is softer.”

That’s why when they see a new patient at Gustafson and Morningstar, they always interview them and ask if the parents have lost teeth because of gum disease. If they determine that a patient is more likely to develop gum disease, Dr. Steve says they treat the patient more aggressively. “If they don’t have gum disease, we’ll tell them its important to be diligent about keeping up their maintenance appointments with the dentist,” he says. “If they show signs of developing gum disease or already have it, we’ll care for them more aggressively with periodontal therapy.”

That means they might see a patients for check-ups and cleanings every 3-4 months instead of at the standard six-month intervals or they might prescribe an antibiotic to help fight the bacteria.

If you think you might have a predisposition for gum disease because of your family history, there are ways to find out for sure. There is a test called the PST Genetic Test for Susceptibility to Periodontal Disease that your dentist can administer. If you’re hunch is proven correct, you and your dentist can develop a preventive care plan together.

A poor diet in general – especially one that is low in Vitamin C and B12, will make you more susceptible to infection. “I’ve seen patients that generally seem to have poor health and it’s reflected in their mouth.” When that happens, Dr. Steve will ask them if they’re seeing a physician and, if the case is serious enough, he might consult with the patient’s doctor to see what medications they are on and discuss treatment.

Chances are, though, that you don’t fit into that category. In that case, follow the standard steps for good dental health and you should be fine.

As a reminder, here are some tips we’ll leave you with: