Good Oral Health as a Beginning Step to Better General Health
Thank you for the opportunity to speak with you about the new discoveries being made that connect your general health with your dental health. Today's dental office can be an exciting life-changing place. The public media is now reporting the connection between gum disease and several general systemic health problems. Researchers are reporting the close connection between gum disease and cardiovascular (heart) disease. Chronic inflammation of the gums due to dental plaque could also be involved in the inflammation of the lining of the blood vessels that is known to lead to the build-up of plaque in the arteries. Dental plaque and diseases of the mouth increase the incidence of stroke and pregnancy complications. Studies also indicate that bacteria in dental plaque can be linked to: lung infections in people with chronic lung diseases, a weakened immune system that can slow wound healing and can also diminish a person's response to vaccines against hepatitis B and influenza. Colonies of bacteria and other organism found in dental plaque contribute to all of these problems. They cause inflammation in our gum tissue and because of this the infectious organism can enter our blood stream becoming a potential systemic health problem. As researchers continue to discover the link between oral disease and systemic disease, we know steps we can take to improve our systemic health by improving our oral health. Visiting your dentist, regular brushing, and daily flossing at home can greatly reduce the risk of diseases linked to dental bacteria. Most dental health providers are aware of this. You should be aware too. The media is reporting this on a regular basis on TV and in print.
This information reminds us that our mouth is the doorway to our body. Good oral health can be a tremendous step towards good general health. Reducing risk of diseases linked to dental bacteria is a common lesson preached by dentists. Take time to see your dentist. Ask him about your oral health and how it affects your general health. Make every effort to clear up any gum and oral infections. The daily care of your mouth is critical. You cannot be healthy without daily plaque control. It is not the old "Mama said to brush your teeth" concept anymore. Gum disease is an infection that can be treated. It can also be spread to other family members. We now know that a new born can acquire bacteria from the mother that causes tooth decay. Periodontal disease is a lifelong infection and can be passed on to others.
Hopefully, this new emphasis on oral health will become part of your regular health care program. Remember if it does not look healthy, it probably is not. Healthy teeth and gums are a treasure. A beautiful smile with beautiful teeth and healthy gum tissue adds zest to your life. Take excellent care of what you have and restore what is needed. In today's vast technological wonderland a gorgeous healthy smile may be only a phone call away. Begin your journey today with us to a healthier, happier smile.
