Considering veneers? Here’s what you need to know
If you’re considering upgrading your smile with veneers, or custom-made dental crowns, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Unbranded – Lifestyle
From anti-aging skin treatments to diets optimized for longevity, longevity is all the rage. But while you may be paying attention to the food you put in your mouth, are you paying enough attention to your mouth itself?
Experts say your gums (yes, that often-overlooked part of your dental hygiene routine) can have a big impact on your overall health and may be aging you faster than you think.
Dr. Jason Auerbach, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon known on social media as @bloodytoothguy, told USA TODAY, “More and more people are viewing the mouth as the gateway to the body and are understanding that oral health and overall health are not only correlated, but actually cause and effect.”
What is periodontal disease? How does it relate to health?
Periodontal disease, also known as gingivitis or periodontitis, is a systemic inflammation of the soft tissues surrounding the teeth.
“It’s basically an infection, but it’s causing a significant amount of inflammation, and it’s that inflammation that’s really of concern,” Auerbach said. “We know that patients with Alzheimer’s disease and chronic soft tissue inflammation are at increased risk for cognitive decline.”
Auerbach explained that as inflammation progresses, blood vessels narrow, reducing blood flow to organs such as the brain and heart.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention agrees that untreated periodontitis can worsen chronic conditions such as diabetes. Other symptoms associated with periodontal disease include an increased risk of heart disease, respiratory diseases such as pneumonia, Alzheimer’s disease, and even certain cancers, according to the American Academy of Periodontology.
“Researchers found that men with periodontal disease were 49% more likely to develop kidney cancer, 54% more likely to develop pancreatic cancer, and 30% more likely to develop blood cancer,” the organization’s website states.
A recent study conducted in Japan also showed a correlation between the number of restored and healthy teeth and a significantly longer lifespan compared to edentulous patients.
“In other words, the health of your entire mouth, not just the health of your gums and soft tissues, determines the health of your entire body,” he says.
How to prevent oral inflammation
It may seem obvious, but proper oral hygiene prevents oral inflammation that can lead to overall health problems. This includes cleaning your teeth regularly, brushing your teeth twice a day, and flossing. Auerbach calls this step “very important,” but says patients don’t do it “as much as they should.” “These are strategies that most patients can and should use to catch it really early and stay healthy as long as possible,” he said.
When it comes to oral hygiene habits, “consistency is much more important than perfection,” he added.
Don’t give up because of bleeding gums (a sign that you’re not flossing enough) or concerns about technique.
“The key is to get started and keep doing it every day,” he said. “Pick up some floss or use a water flosser.”
