Professor E. H. Rompen, Department of Periodontology--Dental Surgery at the University of Liege, Belgium, reported that 91 percent of 108 patients with cardiovascular disease who participated in the trial suffered from moderate to severe periodontitis. Serious gum disease was evident in 66 percent of those without heart disease.

Periodontal infections raise the risk of heart attack and stroke and have been linked to increased plasma levels of inflammation such as C-reactive protein and fibrinogen (which creates blood clots). In addition, researchers theorize that periodontal pathogens could enter the bloodstream, invade the blood vessel walls, and ultimately cause atherosclerosis.

"There is still much research to be done to understand the link between periodontal diseases and systemic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and difficult-to-control diabetes," says Dr. Michael P. Rethman, past president of the American Academy of Periodontology. "The data in this study show the importance of regular dental checkups to ensure a healthy, disease-free mouth."

A referral to a periodontist in your area and free brochure samples, including one titled "Ask Your Periodontist About Periodontal Disease & Heart Disease," are available by calling 800-FLOSS-EM or visiting www.perio.org.