• Heart disease: The bacteria from inflammation of the gums and periodontal disease can enter your bloodstream. Once there, it can travel to the arteries in the heart and cause atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). Atherosclerosis causes plaque to develop on the inner walls of arteries which thicken and this decreases or may block blood flow through the body. This can cause an increased risk of heart attack or stroke. The inner lining of the heart can also become infected and inflamed—a condition known as endocarditis.
  
• Dementia: The bacteria from gingivitis may enter the brain through either nerve channels in the head or through the bloodstream. As a result, this might even lead to the development of Alzheimer’s disease.
• Respiratory infections: The Journal of Periodontology warns that gum disease could cause you to get infections in your lungs, including pneumonia. (Breathing in air passing over infected gums and teeth over a period of time.)
• Diabetic complications: Inflammation of the gum tissue and periodontal disease can make it harder to control your blood sugar and make your diabetes symptoms worse. Diabetes sufferers are also more susceptible to periodontal disease, making proper dental care even more important for those with this disease.

To those patients with special needs, Dr. Nickles stresses the importance of medical providers listening to the patients and their caregivers. Furthermore, sitting down and taking the time to understand the various challenges, will prevent mishaps and unpleasant experiences.