In this Article

• What's the Difference Between Gingivitis and Periodontitis?
• What Causes Periodontal Disease?
• What are the Symptoms of Periodontal Disease?
• How Does My Dentist Diagnose Peridontal Disease?
• How is Periodontal Disease Treated?
• How Can Gingivitis Be Prevented?
• Is Peridontal Disease Linked to Other Health Problems?
• Gum Disease Glossary
• Gum Disease Index

Is Periodontal Disease Linked to Other Health Problems?

According to the CDC, researchers have uncovered potential links between periodontal disease and other serious health conditions. In people with healthy immune systems, the bacteria in the mouth that makes its way into the bloodstream is usually harmless. But under certain circumstances, the CDC says these microorganisms are associated with health problems such as stroke and heart disease. Diabetes is not only a risk factor for periodontal disease, but periodontal disease may make diabetes worse.

Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Department of Dentistry.
Edited by Charlotte E. Grayson, MD, May 2005, WebMD.

Portions of this page © The Cleveland Clinic 2000-2003

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