The Link Between the Mouth and the Body
New research is available showing how infection from the teeth and gums is directly related to illnesses in the rest of the body.
Bacterial infections in the mouth can be a major factor in the development of several systemic diseases. These new risk factors have disproven the fallacy that the mouth is a separate entity when compared to the entire body. These findings also allow dentists and physicians to join together in treatment modalities for the betterment of their patient’s overall health.
Where does this bacterial infection come from?
The main source of infection in the mouth is from periodontal disease, i.e., gum disease. Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that is caused by accumulations of plaque below the gum line, along with an aggressive immune response against these bacteria. This process results in bone loss around the teeth, in which teeth can become loose and may have to be removed. It is almost impossible to brush below the gum line, so a professional cleaning is required by your dentist or dental hygienist to remove these irritants.
The inflammatory response (the body’s reaction to infection) caused by the periodontal (i.e., gum disease) bacteria can have effects throughout the body, including damage to susceptible organs, arteries, and tissues.
What kind of illnesses can these bacteria cause?
Research shows that diabetes increases the risk of periodontal disease, and periodontal disease can aggravate the glycemic (sugar) control of diabetics. Periodontal disease can also increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, oral cancer, pre-eclampsia in pregnant women, and low birth weight infants.
What do I need to do to decrease my risk of disease and improve my overall health?
The first step is to see your dentist for a complete exam of your teeth, gums, and soft tissue. If infection is present or you are at a higher risk for disease, your dentist may recommend a “deep cleaning” and/or more frequent cleaning intervals. He or she will also discuss home care, diet, and recare/maintenance visits.
At Greystone Smile Design, we have a specific non-surgical protocol for each condition based on risk factors and the amount of infection present. Our skilled doctors and hygienists have the ability and technology to take pictures of the areas of concern, show educational videos on the flat-screen TV’s in each treatment room, and can generate a computer analysis of the teeth in question. This is all done to teach you about the process of periondontal disease, so that each patient can be involved and understand the goals of the treatment planning process. Referral to one of our top periodontists may be indicated if the non-surgical therapy is not 100% successful.
A healthier mouth means a healthier you and that’s something to smile about!
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