Oral Health and Gum Disease
There are many reasons to take care of your oral health. It is important to take care of your teeth so that you can chew, talk, and smile. Maintaining good oral hygiene is also essential to preventing conditions such as cavities and gum disease.
Did you know that your oral health also plays an important role in preventing cancer? There is an undeniable link between gum disease and cancer. Studies have shown that gum disease not only affects your oral health but has also been linked to cancer. Whenever you have been referred to a periodontist for an evaluation, you should make an appointment as soon as possible.
It is common for Americans to suffer from dental diseases such as cavities and gum disease. More than 80% of adults have at least one cavity by the age of 34, and 46% of adults aged 30 and older show signs of gum disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Dental plaque contains bacteria that produce acids that damage tooth enamel, causing cavities. Without treatment, tooth decay can lead to severe gum infection, which can spread to other parts of the body. Gum infection, or gingivitis, can lead to a more serious condition called periodontal disease, which results in loose gums, bone loss, and tooth loss. More than 70% of adults age 65 and older suffer from periodontal disease. Poor oral hygiene, diabetes, a weakened immune system, and heredity are factors that can contribute to periodontitis.
According to a new study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, periodontal disease and cancer risk may be linked. Previous studies have found that advanced gum disease may increase cancer risk by 14% to 20% due to changes in immune response or the spread of harmful bacteria, but the authors of this study say previous studies have been limited. The authors highlighted the public health implications of oral health in light of the prevalence of periodontal disease.
According to the CDC, Americans spend over $113 billion a year on dental care, and they lose more than $6 billion in productivity as a result. Periodontists recommend brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, drinking fluoridated water, and avoiding tobacco products to maintain good oral hygiene.
What can I do to keep my teeth and gums healthy?
Many factors can affect your teeth, including what you eat and drink, how often you eat and drink, how long food remains on your teeth, and the amount of plaque that remains. Plaque is a sticky film that contains bacteria.
Keep your teeth and gums healthy:
Brush your teeth twice a day with toothpaste that contains fluoride.
Keep plaque away from the gum line by cleaning carefully.
Every night, floss your teeth before you go to bed.
Drink water between meals and snacks. Reduce your intake of sweet beverages.
When you brush your teeth after meals and snacks, if this is not possible, rinse your mouth with water or a fluoride mouthwash.
Limit sweet foods and foods that stick to your teeth. Whenever you eat a sweet, try to eat it around a meal.
Researchers have shown that pregnant mothers who suffer from periodontal disease expose their unborn children to a variety of health risks, particularly if they also suffer from diabetes.
Periodontal disease generally begins with a bacterial infection in the gum (gingiva) tissue, which progressively destroys the tissue and underlying bone. When left untreated, the bacterial infection causes an inflammatory reaction in the body, which can deepen gum pockets (the space between the teeth and gums) and cause the gums and jawbone to recede. The teeth become loose and unstable when periodontal disease progresses and eventually fall out..