The Mouth-Body Connection in Dallas, TX | Mark E. Glover, DDS, MSD & Akshay A. Chhana, DDS, MS

The Mouth-Body Connection

Active periodontal disease is characterized by inflammation in the gums. The immune cells and the byproducts of the inflammatory cascade in the diseased, inflamed gum tissues can re-enter the bloodstream and travel throughout the body. Researchers have linked the presence of elevated levels of inflammatory cells, chemical mediators and the waste byproducts of inflammation that are circulating in the bloodstream to a number of serious medical conditions. It is important to treat periodontal disease as early and quickly as possible to reduce inflammation so that elevated levels of harmful cells, chemicals and hormones in the blood are minimized.

Heart Disease & Heart Attack

Recent studies have shown that people with periodontal disease are 2.7 times more likely to suffer a heart attack.

Stroke

Studies have also shown that people with periodontal disease are 3 times more likely to suffer a stroke.

Pre-Term Childbirth

Women with periodontal disease are 7-8 times more likely to give birth prematurely to a low birth-weight baby.

Diabetes

Periodontal infection can raise blood sugar in diabetic patients. Periodontal treatment often results in a reduced need for insulin.

Respiratory Disease

Periodontal infection in the mouth can be breathed in and increase the severity of such respiratory diseases as pneumonia, bronchitis and emphysema.

Periodontal Infection Is a Medical Problem

Periodontal disease is no longer thought to be just a dental problem. Researchers are finding many correlations between periodontal infection and serious medical problems.

Your Infection Can Be Transmitted

Research using DNA testing has found that 80% of all periodontal disease comes from bacteria transmitted from a parent or spouse. Patients with periodontal disease can pass their infection along to their loved ones.

Some Patients Are at Higher Risk

Patients in certain higher risk categories (see below) should pay particular attention to any signs of periodontal disease.

Those patients having a personal or family history of:

Heart disease
Heart attack
Stroke
Premature childbirth
Diabetes
Respiratory diseases

Those patients having higher risk lifestyles, including:

Chronic stress
Smoker
Sedentary and overweight
Frequent colds, flu, etc.

Higher Risk Patients

If you have been told you have periodontal disease (or some of its symptoms) it is vital that you seek evaluation and treatment.

Why Choose our office

At our periodontal practice, we believe in delivering far more than just dental care — we aim to provide an experience that’s comfortable, trustworthy, and results-driven.

Here’s what sets us apart:

Specialized Expertise

Our doctors are skilled in advanced gum therapy, dental implants, and full-mouth restorations — giving you access to top-tier periodontal care under one roof.

Patient Comfort & Communication

We know dental procedures can be stressful. We take the time to explain your diagnosis, walk you through all treatment options, and answer every question in clear, understandable terms.

Personalized Treatment Planning

Every smile is different. We build a care plan tailored to your unique needs, whether it’s a routine cleaning, implant placement, or a complete smile restoration.

Cutting-edge Technology & Techniques

We use modern periodontal and implant technologies to ensure precision, faster healing, and long-lasting results.

Long-term Oral Health Commitment

Our focus isn’t just on immediate results — we aim to preserve and enhance your gum and bone health for years to come.