Dr. Benjamin Coon, D.D.S. |
The mouth is a window into the health of the
body. It can show signs of nutritional deficiencies or general infection. For
example, systemic diseases—those that affect the entire body, like diabetes or
immune deficiency diseases—may first become apparent because of accelerated
decay, infection. delayed healing and other oral problems.
Without a doubt, there is a connection
between a healthy mouth and a healthy body. Bleeding gums, visible root
surfaces and loose teeth are not normal at any age. These are usually signs of
an infection called periodontal (gum) disease. Periodontal infections can be
serious and can affect not only the mouth, but potentially your overall health.
In addition, an increasing body of medical evidence suggests that an unhealthy
mouth may worsen serious medical problems like heart disease, stroke, bacterial
pneumonia and diabetes. Pregnant women with periodontitis (advanced periodontal
disease) may be at increased risk of delivering preterm and/or low-birth-weight
infants.
More studies are needed, but some researchers
suspect that bacteria and inflammation linked to periodontitis play a role in several
systemic diseases or conditions. Likewise, diseases such as diabetes, blood
cell disorders, and immunity diseases can lower the body’s resistance to
infection, making periodontal diseases more severe.
People with diabetes often have periodontal
disease. In addition, there is evidence that people with diabetes are more
likely to develop and have more severe periodontitis than those without
diabetes. Some studies suggest that periodontitis can make it more difficult
for people with diabetes to control their blood sugar.
Although periodontitis may contribute to
these health conditions, it’s important to understand that just because two
conditions occur at the same time, it doesn’t necessarily mean that one
condition causes the other. That’s why researchers are examining what happens
when periodontitis is treated in people with these various health problems.
Given the potential link between
periodontitis and systemic health problems, prevention is essential in
maintaining overall health. Brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day. Clean
between your teeth with floss or another type of inter-dental cleaner once a
day. Your dentist may recommend using an antimicrobial mouth rinse as part of
your daily oral hygiene routine. Eat a balanced diet and limit snacks. And
finally, schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings. Professional cleanings
are the only way to remove calculus, or tartar, which traps plaque bacteria
along the gum line.
Dr.
Benjamin Coon, D.D.S.
Glenwood Meadows Dental
40 Market Street, Suite A
Glenwood Springs, CO 81601
970-947-1717