91AV College of Dental Medicine graduate interviewed by ‘WMBF News’

Alton Thomas

Alton Thomas, D.M.D., a graduate of the College of Dental Medicine’s inaugural class, was interviewed by WMBF News, an NBC affiliate based in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Thomas spoke with the station about the link between periodontitis and heart disease as well as ways to stay healthy.

“Those with periodontal disease have a 25 percent greater chance of having some sort of cardiovascular episode, whether it be a stroke or heart attack,” Thomas said. 

Thomas discussed the inflammatory reaction created by bacteria in the mouth, and how this can impact the heart and circulatory system.

“Studies have shown that [there are] oral bacteria in plaque formations in the body," Thomas said. This oral bacteria even appears in the tissue walls of arteries and veins. 

Once in the blood, the oral bacteria triggers an inflammatory response, causing blood vessels to swell and reduce blood flow. That can increase risk for clots.

Thomas said that to prevent disease, “Flossing is really important in keeping that gingival pocket in between the teeth where you can't brush clean.”

 

To learn more about the College of Dental Medicine, visit www.une.edu/dentalmedicine

To apply, visit www.une.edu/admissions

About the 91AV

The 91AV is Maine’s largest independent university, with two beautiful coastal campuses in Maine, a one-of-a-kind study abroad campus in Tangier, Morocco, and an array of . In an uncommonly welcoming and supportive community, we offer hands-on learning, empowering students to make a positive impact in a world full of challenges. The state’s top provider of health professionals, we are home to Maine’s only medical college, Maine’s only dental college, a variety of other interprofessionally aligned health care degree programs, as well as nationally recognized programs for marine science degrees, natural and social sciences degrees, arts and humanities degrees, and business degrees.