Dr. Andrew C. Dreyer has found that many situations dealing with periodontitis are also related to other health issues. Periodontal disease is not only susceptible when other diseases or chronic conditions invade the body, but it is also might begin those diseases or conditions by triggering them and allowing them to develop. This is why it is very important to schedule an appointment with your periodontist as soon as you notice any symptoms or problems.

There are many cofactors and conditions that are associated with periodontal disease, and these include:

• Diabetes: Our team at the dental practice of Andrew C. Dreyer, DDS, MS has found that diabetes and periodontitis have a very intimate relationship. There is a high risk of having both diabetes and periodontal disease at the same time.
• Heart Disease: Heart disease can become apparent if periodontal disease reaches your bloodstream. This could mean that the bacteria spread by periodontitis attach to the coronary arteries and create blood clot formations. This could then lead to a heart attack.
• Pregnancy Complications: There have been many situations where pregnant women who have periodontitis deliver premature and underweight babies. Periodontal disease increases levels of prostaglandin and send labor-inducing chemicals at inappropriate and incorrect times.
• Respiratory Disease: The bacteria associated with periodontal disease are known to cause or worsen conditions like emphysema, pneumonia, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. The bacteria can find its way into the respiratory system and cause many bacterial infections.

For more information on the mouth-body connection involved with periodontitis in Bakersfield, California, call our office today. We are happy to talk with you!