Studies have shown that people with periodontal disease have a higher probability of being diagnosed with heart disease than those without periodontal disease.
Researchers suspect that the bacteria that is associated with inflammation is a characteristic of both periodontal and heart disease. Bleeding gums, a sign of periodontal disease and inflammation, allow that bacteria to enter your bloodstream through the inflamed or infected gum tissue.
One cause of heart disease is a buildup of plaque in the arteries that, over time, can restrict the flow of blood. Periodontal bacteria have been found in that plaque, which leads many researchers to believe there might be a relationship.
In addition to building up, the plaque in the arteries can rupture, forming a clot. The clot can block blood flow and trigger a heart attack.
The same thing can happen in your brain. If the bacteria settle in your carotid artery, the inflammation may lead to the buildup of fatty deposits. If these deposits break apart and are carried in your bloodstream, they can lodge in your brain, block a blood vessel, and cause a stroke.
You may be at risk if you have damage to your heart or heart valve, certain congenital defects, a history of endocarditis, an artificial heart or heart valve, or you have had a heart transplant.
Diabetes has also been shown to be a risk factor.
It is important for heart health to exercise daily, eat a balanced diet, drink plenty of water and get restful sleep.
Another part of that healthy lifestyle includes maintaining preventative recare appointments and radiographs at our office and following home care instructions.
We want to work with you and your physician to keep you in optimal health, and a healthy mouth is key to a healthy life.
Dr. Rehder and the entire staff are friendly and compassionate. They accommodate my needs as a patient and treat me as a personal friend. Professionally, they provide the utmost care and advice, the patient always comes first. I can’t say enough positive comments about this practice.
~Review by Eileen S.
Dr. Rehder is very professional, yet not too serious as he is doing your teeth. He makes it relaxing and is able to keep your mind away from his work (I have never liked going to the dentist, but Dr. Rehder makes the experience as close to pleasant as a dentist visit can be).
~Review by Mary Ellen M.
Thank you Dr. Rehder and Christine for the "always exciting" and "never a dull moment" orthodontist appointment. See you in two weeks to do it all over again. Ok maybe-not ALL over again.
~Review by Elena C.
I had a great experience with Dr. Rehder. He is very informative and professional. All of the staff were so nice and helpful. My overall experience was one of the best I had with a dental office. I would definitely recommend people to come here.
~Review by Paulina C.
Professional staff. Makes you feel at ease, would highly recommend.
~Review by Diane S.
Always wonderful visits at Pinefield Dental. I've been a patient since the very early 90s. The staff is my extended family & takes care of my teeth with the utmost professionalism. This is my dental home.
~Review by Kenneth C.
The doctor and staff were wonderful. My experience is always great. The staff is very caring and always professional. The hours are very convenient as well. They will be able to accommodate anyone's schedule.
~Review by Amanda C.
Richard F. Gittleson, DDS Reviews No one likes/enjoys going to the dentist, but our dentist (Dr. Gittleson) and his staff are so pleasant they help relieve a patient fears.
~Review by Patricia L.
Highly recommended, I’ve been a patient since 1983.
~Review by Charles G.
Excellent.
~Review by Dom J.
