BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., Feb. 27 (UPI) -- When people with gum disease chew or brush their teeth bacteria can enter the blood stream boosts clotting risk and risk of stroke, a U.S. periodontist says.
Dr. Mahnaz Rashti, a Beverly Hills, Calif., periodontist says dental care is a key way to prevent the development and progression of periodontal disease, ultimately decreasing one's propensity for having a stroke.
Having healthy teeth and gums not only decreases the chances of stroke, but the chances of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, preterm pregnancies, prostate cancer and breast cancer as well, Rashti says.
Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the gum tissue and other structures supporting the teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and may also interfere with other systems of the body.
In addition to daily tooth brushing and flossing, people age 35 and older should expect to get a comprehensive periodontal evaluation annually.
