Gum infections, in essence, affect (infect) the whole body

Those with periodontal disease are twice as likely to die from a heart attack.

Three times as likely to die from a stroke.

Pregnant women have four times the risk of delivering pre-term babies.

One and a half times as likely to get respiratory disease (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)

Those with hi gum inflammation and lo cholesterol have a worse survival rate than those with hi cholesterol and lo gum inflammation. Some studies suggest that cavities, gingivitis, and tooth loss are better predictors of cardiovascular problems than high cholesterol or triglycerides.

Simple blood test for C-reactive protein (CRP) can determine inflammation levels.

Inflammation is a good line of defense, but when it is out of control, it can lead to heart attacks, colon cancer, Alzheimer's and other diseases. 200-300 types of bacteria living in plaque create an out of balance bacterial environment which spreads throughout the body.

What to do?

Professional support, assessment, treatment

Regular hygiene visits, monitoring plaque bacterial populations, herbal irrigation, ozone infusions, CRP testing, cortisol testing, stool testing, monitoring pH, blood pressure.

Consistent and thorough teeth cleaning at home

Irrigation with herbals
Baking soda, peroxide, goldenseal, myrrh, oils

Balanced diet, consider balancing body chemistry techniques (nutritionist, naturopath, etc)

Reduce: sugar, caffeine, carbonated drinks, alcohol
Increase: organic yogurt (plain), lemon water, organic vegetables (raw or lightly steamed)
Supplement ideas: vitamin and minerals (as recommended)
anti-oxidants, especially coQ10 (>100mg daily), glutathione probiotics
cell salts (calc phos, calc fluor)
intestinal enzymes (bromelain, papain, etc)

See Cooling Inflammation with Diet article from PCC Sound Consumer Healthy gastro-intestinal system (supplements as above, cleansings)

Healthy lifestyle

Exercise, stress reduction strategies, consistently excellent sleep.