Dental Health Is About More Than Teeth

    FORT LAUDERDALE, FL, October 23, 2008 /24-7PressRelease/ -- It might be easy to think of teeth as unrelated to the rest of our bodies. Likewise, some might believe that dental health is only about maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Dental health, however, is far more connected to overall health than many people realize.

In particular, two diseases - periodontitis and oral cancer - can pose serious health risks and even death.

Periodontitis

Most people recognize that periodontal disease can have devastating effects for teeth and gums. You might have seen photos of people with advanced periodontitis, which, according to the Mayo Clinic, is "a serious infection that destroys the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth, and eventually may cause tooth loss." But were you aware that periodontitis can lead to even more serious problems affecting the heart, brain, and other parts of the body?

More specifically, advanced periodontitis can lead to any of the following conditions:

• Increased blood sugar levels
• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Premature birth (in mothers with periodontal disease)

Poor dental hygiene is the primary cause of periodontitis, although anyone who smokes or takes certain medications may also be at risk.

Oral Cancer

For many, the symptoms of oral cancer begin small. Patients might notice a white, red, or dark spot on their gums, or they may experience pain or numbness in the mouth area. Whatever the beginning symptoms, approximately 30,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer each year, with 51% of that number expected to survive more than five years post-diagnosis.

Maintaining Good Dental Health

Fortunately, peridontitis is usually preventable, and oral cancer is treatable if caught early. Regardless of the disease, it is important that you make dental health a priority and do the following:

• Brush often (ideally, two to three times a day).
• Floss often (at least once a day).
• Check your mouth regularly for tissue abnormalities.
• Visit your dentist for regular six-month cleanings.
• Ask your dentist about oral cancer screening options.

Sometimes, even people who exercise good hygiene may get a potentially serious dental disease. Therefore, remember to seek regular professional care, and remember that strong dental health can help you maintain overall health, too.

If you live in the Fort Lauderdale area would like more information on the connection between dental and overall health, please contact the dentists at SmilePerfect today.

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