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FLOSStoLIVE LONGER DENTALHEALTH
Dr. Harris Prehogan B.Sc, D.M.D www.trilliumdental.ca
This can cause gingivitis, an infection of the gums. When your immune system steps in to fight this infection your gums become inflamed, and may bleed when you brush. Were this same type of infection to appear anywhere else in your body, you would no doubt go running to the doctor for treatment, but bleeding, tender gums are often ignored. Untreated, this tenderness will turn into gum disease. This inflammation can cause the gums to ulcerate, destroying the soft tissue and bone that anchors teeth to the jaw. It also sends inflammatory substances throughout the body. Researchers are discovering that out of control inflammation may prove to be the engine that drives an ever growing list of greatly feared, chronic illnesses; from clogged arteries and heart attacks to arthritis and cancer. This link is just one of a number of hypotheses explaining how chronic oral infection may trigger or intensify systemic diseases! Often, it is a dentist who first discovers a larger health problem. Since they see their patients frequently (2-4 times a year), dentists can easily see changes in a patient’s gums. This may lead them to ask if patients have had their blood sugars checked recently. In fact, a doctor may refer a patient with uncontrolled blood sugars to a dental professional.
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s far back as we can tell, people have tried to keep their teeth clean. The ancient Egyptians used myrrh (tree resin) and antiseptic herbs to treat infected gums. They also drank beer that contained the same bacteria that produces tetracycline (a commonly prescribed antibiotic today) to treat their unhealthy teeth. Today, gum disease has passed tooth decay as the most common cause of tooth loss in adults. Termed ‘the silent epidemic’, gum disease affects 80% of Americans over the age of 65. Given the state of public health, good oral health is more important than just preserving your smile. Growing research suggests that gum disease may play a role in a variety of health problems; including diabetes, respiratory illness, pregnancy complications (e.g. preterm births) and heart disease. So, what exactly is the connection between your mouth and your overall health? The primary culprits are the millions of bacteria that lurk in your mouth. Some of the 500 species of bacteria in your mouth can be harmful. These bacteria build complex colonies of ‘sticky’ plaque. This plaque (tartar) is composed of durable coral reef-like structures that build up at the gum line and in the crevices around teeth.
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Vol. 2, Edition #1
New research suggests that periodontal disease can affect a diabetic patient’s ability to control blood sugar levels.
The mouth is a gateway to the rest of the body. The perception that dentists care for your teeth and gums and doctors look after everything else is breaking down. There is no separation between oral and whole body health. Staying healthy and keeping fit requires more than just exercise and a good diet. It is just as important to our health to brush and floss regularly and get dental checkups. Keep that smile bright and you will really have something to smile about!
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