What is a Stroke?
Stroke is one of the leading causes of death in the United States and the leading cause of death in older Americans. It is estimated that an one American suffers from an instance every 45 seconds. With one in four men and one in five women over the age of 45 suffering from a stroke, reducing your risk of having one is very important.
Stroke occurs when the blood vessels that supply the brain with oxygen are damaged or compromised. Restricting the brain of oxygen, even briefly, can result in a stroke. Strokes are widely feared because of their debilitating aftermath. Even minor or mini-strokes can result in life-altering consequences, such as paralysis, weakness, aphasia (losing the ability to speak, write, or understand language), and mental health changes.
Stroke and Periodontal Disease
Recent studies have shown that people with moderate to advanced periodontal disease are at a greater risk. One study published by the American Stroke Association in 2004 showed that patients with severe periodontitis, or gum disease, had a 4.3 times higher risk of stroke than those with mild or no periodontal disease. The bottom line is: If you have an infection in your mouth 24 hours a day for 7 days per week, then it is going to spread to your entire body!
New studies are released every year linking periodontal disease and stroke. The good news is that periodontal disease is preventable and treatable and is an easy way to eliminate one risk factor you may have for stroke.
We are accepting new patients in both our Wilmington and Leland offices!
Dr. Deana Cook, located in Wilmington and Leland, NC, is an experienced periodontist who serves patients from Castle Hayne, Porters Neck, Ogden, Leland, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Southport, and Hampstead. Dr. Cook, along with our entire team, is looking forward to welcoming you to our office and encourage you to schedule your appointment today!
Wilmington Office
7028 Wrightsville Avenue
Wilmington, NC 28403
Phone Number: (910) 256-8486
Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday: 8:00am – 3:00pm
Wednesday: 8:00am – 3:00pm
Thursday: CLOSED
Leland Office
1217 Magnolia Village Way
Leland, NC 28451
Current Patients: (910) 256-8486
Monday: 8:00am – 3:00pm
Tuesday: CLOSED
Wednesday: CLOSED
Thursday: 8:00am – 3:00pm