Periodontal disease refers to inflammatory processes in tissues surrounding the teeth, in response to bacterial accumulations, aka dental plaque, on the teeth. Anaerobic bacteria found in invasive microbial plaque can penetrate gingival tissues in the gums. When this happens, it can induce tissue destruction as well as inflammatory responses from cells such as lymphocytes, macrophages, leukocytes, and other cells with crazy names that are associated with the immune system. Th

We see it all around us—obesity issues on the news, new diet fads making top headlines and big brand companies releasing diet versions of top-selling sodas. While obesity is well established to be a risk factor for development of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and type II diabetes, other researchers have specifically investigated the relationship between obesity and periodontal health. Many studies are showing that obesity is associated with greater risk of d