What do oral cancer, heart disease, diabetes, respiratory ailments premature low birth-weight babies have in common? They can all be linked to dental hygiene. Surprisingly enough there are many ailments beyond a root canal that can result from poor oral health.
In a study done by the ADHA it was found that 75 percent of Americans have periodontal disease and don't even know it. In its initial stages it is reversible but if left untreated it can lead to oral cancer, heart disease, diabetes, respiratory ailments and pre-mature low birth-weight babies.
Oral Cancer - Perhaps the most apparent of the ailments listed, oral cancer claims the lives of nearly 9,000 annually, with about 30,000 new cases being diagnosed each year. It may surprise you to hear that more common than many other diseases that are more familiar to the general public. Oral cancer is more common than leukemia, cancer of the brain, thyroid, liver, ovaries and cervix. Usually the disease can be treated early and this treatment is successful in 90% of the case. It is the spread of oral cancer that can be more difficult to treat and can ultimately cost you your life.
Heart Disease - You may have already known that heart disease is the number one killer of women (more common than all other forms of cancer, including breast cancer, and AIDS combined). Researchers have discovered links between this cardiovascular disease and the bacteria that play a key role in periodontal disease. The well-being of your heart is undoubtedly linked to the overall well being of your body. Aggressively treating any kind of bacterial infection is going to improve your health.
Diabetes - Did you know that diabetes is the fourth leading cause of death among Americans? Furthermore, did you know that nearly 95% of those with diabetes also have periodontal disease?! Those with diabetes have an increased susceptibility to contract various types of infections. There is a definite link between periodontal disease and fluctuations in blood sugar levels.
Respiratory Ailments - Bacteria from periodontal disease can move to other parts of the body. Frequently, this bacterium makes its way from the mouth to the lungs. This obviously affects an individual's ability to breath. Respiratory problems are also commonly seen as catalysts for the developments of more breathing problems.
Pre-mature Low Birth-weight Babies - Expectant mothers who have periodontal disease harbor in their bodies a bacterial infection. Researchers have found that this bacterium can trigger the body's natural labor inducing chemicals, throwing a mother into early delivery. The result is that mothers with periodontal disease are seven times more likely to have pre-mature (and therefore low birth-weight babies.
Other physical ailments that can be linked to your dental health include, eating disorders, osteoporosis (and resulting bone fractures, pain and disability), even the HIV virus is commonly found in the mouth first. Early detection of periodontal disease and other oral health induced ailments can be provided by keeping regular dental exam appointments.
Other signs or periodontal disease include but are not limited to:
o Swollen/tender gums
o Pus around the teeth and gums
o Tooth loss or loose/separating teeth
o Pain and sensitivity
o Bleeding gums
o A change in the way your teeth fit together (i.e. when you bite down or wear dentures)
Your dentist can and should be your first line of detection and defense against the debilitating effects that periodontal disease can have on your body.
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