Welcome to the September Edition of the Chew on This Newsletter from Summit Family Dental.
As always, if it’s time to schedule your next appointment, please call (586) 726-0606. See you soon!
Healthy Habits
September Is National Gum Care Awareness Month
Dental and heart health are closely linked, primarily through inflammation and bacteria. When you have severe gum disease (periodontitis), oral bacteria can enter your bloodstream. This causes chronic, systemic inflammation that damages blood vessels, triggers fatty plaque buildup in the arteries (atherosclerosis), and increases your risk of heart attacks and strokes.
What Gum Disease Looks Like
Healthy gums are firm and pink and sit snugly against the bone. With gum disease, the gums recede, become inflamed and bleed, and the bone underneath is slowly lost.
The Bacterial Threat
Harmful bacteria from infected gums can travel to your heart and directly infect damaged heart valves — a dangerous condition called endocarditis. Endocarditis is a rare but life-threatening inflammation of the heart’s inner lining and valves, usually caused by bacterial or fungal infections. Germs enter the bloodstream and attach to damaged heart tissue, forming vegetative growths. Left untreated, it can destroy valves, cause heart failure, and trigger strokes.
Know the Warning Signs
Symptoms can develop suddenly or gradually over months. Common signs include:
- Persistent fever, chills, night sweats, and fatigue.
- Small red or purple spots on the skin or eyes.
- Tender bumps on the fingers and painless spots on the palms or soles.
Who Is at Higher Risk
Bacteria such as Staphylococcus and Streptococcus — the bacteria found in plaque — are the most common culprits. They typically enter the bloodstream through poor dental health, invasive medical procedures, skin wounds, or IV drug use. Your risk is higher if you have:
- Artificial heart valves.
- Congenital heart defects.
- A history of endocarditis.
This is why it is so important to keep your 4–6 month recalls and get your teeth cleaned on a regular basis. Give us a call to set your appointment up today!
— Karyn Casey, R.D.H.
Team Highlight
Welcome Dr. Mourad
Hi, my name is Dr. Mourad and I am excited to join the team at Summit Family Dental and look forward to getting to know you.
I earned my bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Engineering from Wayne State University before pursuing my Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at the University of Michigan. I then completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at the University of Detroit Mercy, where I received advanced training in comprehensive dental care, including prosthodontic treatment for head and neck oncology patients and implant restorative treatment.
My goal is to provide high-quality, compassionate and personalized care and help every patient feel comfortable and informed throughout their dental experience to achieve a healthy and confident smile.
Outside of the office, I enjoy traveling, playing tennis, and spending time with family and friends. I look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve your oral health goals!
