Many people don’t realize how closely oral health is linked to overall health. Dentists, like Dr. Jamie Sands, describe the mouth as a “mirror of your health,” while various health experts argue that good oral care can prevent more than just dental problems.
Scientists are currently investigating the connection between oral health and other diseases. Inflammation, a key factor in many health issues such as heart disease and gum disease, appears to link these conditions. Researchers hope that understanding this connection will reveal if treating gum inflammation can also help with other diseases.
This research is crucial for several reasons. Between 30% to 50% of American adults suffer from mild to moderate gum disease, or gingivitis, and an additional 5% to 15% have more severe forms of periodontal disease. It’s disheartening because most of these cases could be avoided with regular brushing and flossing. Hopefully, this information encourages you to heed your dentist’s advice.
When you brush or floss, bacteria can enter your bloodstream. One theory suggests that these bacteria can travel to areas where plaque builds up in the arteries. Another theory involves the body’s response to inflammation; when gums are inflamed, the body releases specific chemicals into the bloodstream to combat infection.
Only recently have researchers started to find a clear link between inflammation, heart disease, and oral health. Periodontal disease, a severe form of gingivitis, often goes unnoticed because it hides under the gums. Surprisingly, studies indicate that people with periodontal disease are nearly twice as likely to have heart disease. Additionally, other research reveals that gum disease can increase the risk of stroke.
Given this information, there’s a crucial question: can treating periodontal disease reduce the risk of heart disease and related conditions? A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine looked at 120 patients with severe periodontal disease and found that six months after treatment, their inflammation levels were significantly lower.
In conclusion, taking care of your teeth isn’t just about avoiding cavities—it’s about maintaining your overall health. Remember, healthy teeth mean a healthy body.