The Truth About Gingivitis and Heart Disease

(MS) - Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease - and one that can be both reversed and prevented. It is caused by plaque, the sticky, colorless film that builds up on teeth and gums every day. If plaque is not effectively removed, it can cause toxins to form, which irritate the gums - a condition known as gingivitis. Signs of gingivitis include red, irritated gums that may bleed when brushed, recession of the gumline and foul breath.

If caught early and diligent effort is made to keep teeth clear of plaque through brushing, flossing and using The Perio-Defense FMD® Oral Health Home Kit, gingivitis is a non-issue for the most part. However, if left untreated, gingivitis can turn into periodontitis and damage your teeth, causing them to fall out and create bone damage in the jaw.

Gum disease can cause damage in the body beyond oral problems. Researchers have found that people with periodontal disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease as those without periodontal disease, according to the American Academy of Periodontology. Several theories exist to explain the connection between heart disease and heart trouble. Some believe that the toxins present in the mouth of those with periodontal problems can enter the bloodstream and attach to fatty plaques in the arteries. Others believe that inflammation from gum disease increases plaque buildup, which can contribute to the swelling of arteries. There is also a connection between gum disease and those who suffer strokes.

Gingivitis and periodontitis are treatable and preventable conditions. Therefore, their identification as stroke and heart disease risk factors mean it is even more important to diagnose and treat gum disease promptly.

Preventing Gingivitis

Gingivitis is prevented through good oral hygiene. This includes bi-annual visits to a dentist for professional cleanings (or more frequently if plaque is a particular problem). Once plaque hardens into tartar, it must be removed by a dentist.

Proper brushing and flossing are also key, and there are additional steps a person can take in the comfort of his or her own home. Perio-Defense FMD® Oral Health Home Kit is part of a clinically tested and patented process for improving periodontal health. The kit is designed to be a natural, non-invasive method that is convenient and easy to use.

The kit relies on a number of all-natural ingredients, including baking soda and silicone dioxide to reduce bacteria; cranberry extract, which makes it difficult for bacteria to stick to the teeth and form plaque; tea tree oil, which serves as an oral antiseptic; methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), a naturally occurring nutrient that reduces inflammation; and probiotics that inhibit the growth of 23 toxic producing microorganisms.

In a clinical study, the Perio-Defense FMD® system was shown to dramatically improve gum health (reduce gingivatal bleeding by 55 percent) and improve breath odor (by 80 percent) in the experimental group. The kit comes complete with PerioSure® mints, PerioBiotics® chewable tablets taken at bedtime, and PerioImmune®, an immune booster capsule taken twice a day at meals.

If you suspect you have gingivitis, make an appointment with your dentist today. To learn more about PerioDefense, call 1-800-546-7182 and mention code VK51.

CAPTION: Daily flossing is just one step to take in the prevention of gingivitis.

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