Posts Tagged ‘gum disease’

Gum Disease and Heart Health

Tuesday, March 27th, 2012

tooth-heartNearly 80% of American adults suffer from gum disease! Gum disease can devastate your oral health, causing serious dental problems. In fact, the number one reason for adult tooth loss in the United States is untreated gum disease. Worse, though, is the effect that gum disease can have on your heart health.

Research conducted recently found that patients who had suffered heart attacks also suffered from poor oral health, too. And the American Academy of Periodontology notes that people diagnosed with gum disease are twice as likely to have heart disease. (more…)

What Does Shark Week Have to Do With Gum Disease?

Thursday, August 5th, 2010

While Shark Week continues to strike fear into the hearts of Americans nation-wide, we’re keeping on our eye on another, more sinister threat: Gum Disease. We think gum disease is infinitely scarier than anything a silly ol’ shark can dish.

Shark

Take a look at these statistics and tell us if you agree.

Sharks: Chances of being attacked by a shark are one in 11.5 million
Gum Disease:
Chances of being attacked by gum disease are about one in three (conservatively)

Sharks : Account for less than 1% (way less) of annual deaths
Gum Disease
: Accounts for 70% of all tooth loss

(more…)

Smiles Needs Protecting When You’re Expecting

Friday, May 28th, 2010

pregnancy healthGetting ready to welcome a new member into your family is an exciting time. Between much-needed rests (sustaining a growing baby saps a lot of your energy!), you focus on all sorts of preparations. You’ll decorate the nursery, attend check-up visits and sonogram appointments with your doctor, and some unfortunate soul will be tasked with the job of putting together the baby’s crib.

In the flurry of anticipation, don’t forget to take care of your teeth and gums. It’s likely more important now than ever to keep brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist for preventive maintenance like professional cleanings and checkups. Studies suggest a link between gum disease and instances of premature births, as well as other pregnancy complications, so you want to keep a very close watch on your dental health during this most formative stage of your child’s development.

Swollen, bleeding gums are a common complaint for pregnant women, and it stems from the higher progesterone levels in your body. The increase of this hormone means your gums are more prone to irritation from plaque, which can quickly cause gingivitis. (more…)

Keep Smiling after 50

Thursday, April 29th, 2010

50 on the beachIf you’re over 50, you probably have new aches and pains every day. That’s just life. Sure, Madonna has graced the cover of AARP, but honestly, she probably has the same issues. Quality of life is the key to staying on top of your game once you’re over the hill… and a few miles down the path.

Oral health plays a big role in overall health, and overall health contributes to good quality of life. So, taking care of your mouth is important. The dentist can help keep your smile pearly white, super clean, and functioning comfortably, so you can retain your natural teeth long into your golden years, if not forever. (A dentist can even help with sleep disorders, chronic headaches, and TMJ pain!)

People over 50 should watch out for these common oral health hiccups:

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5 Tips for Tip-Top Teeth

Monday, February 15th, 2010

child_brushingDental caries (cavities) is the most prevalent childhood disease, and 90% of adults have had a cavity. Gum disease is responsible for 70% of adult tooth loss. A few simple habits could help you reduce your risk for cavities and gum disease – and improve your potential for keeping natural teeth long into your golden years. Kids and adults alike can benefit from these 5 quick and easy oral health tips. Some you’ve known since kindergarten, while others may be news. (more…)

FAQs: Women and Oral Health

Thursday, December 31st, 2009

Women and periodontal healthStatistics show that women are more likely to visit a dentist then men—but does this mean women have better oral health? Not necessarily. Women have specific oral health needs, and hormonal fluctuations throughout their lifetime can make them more susceptible to periodontal disease. Here are a few frequently asked questions concerning women’s oral health at various stages of life. (more…)

Important News for Patients with Diabetes

Friday, November 13th, 2009

The link between gum disease and diabetes has been debated for some time. Researchers agree that the link exists, but the relationship is unclear. Are patients with diabetes more shutterstock_2010341susceptible to gum disease, or is it the other way around? In recognition of National Diabetes Month, the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) has released some new guidelines on oral health for people with diabetes.

According to recent studies, a two-way relationship exists between oral health and diabetes. Gum disease, an infection of the soft tissues that support the teeth, increases blood sugar levels, which elevates the risk of diabetic complications. Patients who already have diabetes are more susceptible to infection, and therefore, more likely to contract the disease. The bottom line? Everyone, especially diabetics, needs to pay close attention to his or her oral health. (more…)