Oral Health Matters from Head to Toe
We once believed that tooth loss was the worst outcome of gum disease but now we know that oral health matters from head to toe. Gum disease has been linked to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, lung infections, increased risks during pregnancy and it has complications for those with osteopenia and osteoporosis.
Gum disease increases your risk of myocardial infarction (heart attack) and stroke by 2-3 times. Gum disease is considered a chronic low grade infection that results in an inflammatory response from your body. Chemicals that are released in response to inflammation circulate in your bloodstream and cause the linings of your artery walls to become rough and irritated. This then allows the arteriosclerotic plaque to accumulate more easily.
Gum disease can initiate a case of type II diabetes. Chronic inflammation also makes it more difficult for your body to regulate the blood glucose levels present and can bring on a diabetic response. Diabetes also contributes to uncontrolled gum disease as a result of decreased immune function.
Gum disease can potentially worsen pneumonia, bronchitis, emphysema and COPD. Inhaling the harmful bacteria that are present in chronic gum infections results in them getting lodged within the lungs and can worsen breathing problems.
Pregnant women with gum disease are 7 times more likely to deliver premature or low birth weight babies. The chemicals released in response to inflammation mimic the natural labour inducing hormones and can result in the early delivery of your baby. A premature baby can be at risk for many health problems as a result of the underdevelopment of organ systems.
People receiving oral medications for the treatment of osteoporosis or osteopenia have an increased risk for osteonecrosis of the jaw bone. Bisphosphonate medications used for the prevention of osteoporosis can upset the natural process of bone replacement which can result in an impaired healing response in the bone.
The top 3 things you need to know to prevent gum disease are as follows:
#3 Good diet, exercise and overall well-being. Gum disease is an inflammatory disease and by keeping your immune system strong you are more likely able to fight off the harmful bacteria that cause it.
#2 Good oral hygiene. The mechanical removal of plaque is still the best way to reduce the levels bacterial laden plaque in your mouth so everyone at minimum should brush twice a day, morning and night and flossing or use another oral hygiene aid to clean in between teeth.
#1 Regular professional dental hygiene cleanings every 3 to 6 months. Only your dental hygienist can properly and effectively remove all of the plaque and tartar that accumulates on your teeth and provide valuable feedback and make suggestions to you about maintaining your oral health.
Keep Your Smile Awhile, See a Registered Dental Hygienist.
