Cherry Hill Dentists Educate Patients about the Effects of Gum Disease on Systemic Health

November 24, 2015 - Cherry Hill, NJ - Because gum disease is not just an oral health problem, the dentists at Haddonfield Dental are trying to educate patients about gum disease prevention and the importance of seeking long-term treatment once diagnosed with the disease.

"Gum disease can often go unnoticed, especially for those who do not routinely visit their dentist for check-ups," Dr. Joseph Ahlo said. "With new studies linking the disease to physical systemic diseases, it is imperative that people take their oral health seriously."

Systemic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease, which have been linked to gum disease patients, place yearly dental visits as a high priority in overall health maintenance. The effects of gum disease can exacerbate existing heart conditions, putting patients at risk of stroke or other major health conditions.

Diabetics have a higher chance of having gum disease which makes dental appointments a very important part of their health maintenance plan. "Diabetics really need to see a dentist on a regular basis," he said. "Because studies have found that they are more likely to develop gum disease, maintenance programs will help stop the progression of gum disease."

Haddonfield Dental makes every effort to inform patients who are at risk or have already been diagnosed with gum disease about the importance of at-home efforts and dental maintenance procedures that will help limit the damage of gum disease to their overall health.

Dr. Ahlo added, "Gum disease may seem like a small thing, but it needs to be treated before it has the chance to create other, more serious health problems."

For more information about Haddonfield Dental, please visit haddonfielddental.com.

About Haddonfield Dental and Dr. Joseph Ahlo
Haddonfield Dental offers a full line of cosmetic, preventative, and restorative dental services to both adults and children. The staff is committed to offering personal care to each patient in a welcoming and comfortable environment. Dr. Joseph Ahlo received his dental degree from Tufts University in Boston and his Master's Degree in the specialty of Periodontics at Columbia University in New York City. Dr. Ahlo is a certified periodontist and a Diplomat of the American Board of Periodontology.