subject: Our teeth are good warning signs for other ailments [print this page] People with bad teeth and gums are more likely to develop heart disease
Several studies suggest a link between the health of your teeth and gums and heart disease. The American Heart Association recommends maintenance of best possible oral hygiene to prevent bacterial endocarditis (an inflammation of the inner layer of the heart) in heart patients. The microorganisms present in plaque tend to accumulate due to poor oral hygiene and become a risk factor for thickening of arteries which may lead to heart attacks or angina. Bad breath can be a sign of diabetes
Diabetes doesn't cause bad breath, but it can cause "acetone breath," often described as smelling sweet or fruity. Another telltale sign: lots of gum inflammation, despite regular flossing and brushing. Dentists who see these symptoms often refer patients to a doctor to check for diabetes. That's because uncontrolled diabetes hampers the body's ability to fight off bacterial infection, which can lead to runaway gum disease. However, these changes are less likely to be seen in well controlled diabetic patients. Periodontal disease and acute respiratory infections
Potential respiratory pathogens could originate in oral cavity dental plaque and could be one of the risk factors to cause hospital acquired pneumonia in high risk patients such as those in intensive care units or those on ventilators. Mechanical tooth brushing and chemical antimicrobial rinse could reduce the risk of hospital acquired pneumonia in such patients. Menopause and osteoporosis in women
Menopause in women due to hormonal deficiency could lead to peeling of the gums and osteoporosis. This can lead to reduced bone density, which could be a risk factor for tooth loss. Despite its drawbacks, estrogen replacement therapy does cut down on tooth loss. Gum disease during pregnancy can cause premature birth
Severe gum disease in pregnant women has been linked to an increase in risk of premature delivery. A possible culprit: The bacteria in gum disease release toxins into the bloodstream, interfering with fetal growth and leading to pre-term delivery and low birth weight. Pregnant women have even more reason to shun cigarettes: Smoking is a big risk factor for developing gum disease. Vitamin deficiencies can be seen in the mouth
A lack of sufficient Iron can cause sores in the mouth, and can lead to a sore tongue. Vitamin C deficiency causes gums to easily bruise and bleed, and may lead to tooth loss. Vitamin D deficiency boosts the risk of jaw fracture and gum disease. Good dental hygiene reduces the amount of bacteria in your blood stream
Every time you brush your teeth you release some bacteria into your mouth. That's not usually a problem. But when your gums are inflamed from gingivitis or other problems, you release a much higher load of bacteria, and that can contribute to health problems. The best way to prevent inflammation and gum disease is to brush and floss your teeth regularly. For more information, please contact your local Dentist, or Dental Clinic.
Our teeth are good warning signs for other ailments
By: Citylife Dental
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