Most of us know that oral hygiene is critical to healthy teeth, white
smiles and first impressions. But not nearly as many are familiar with
the extreme consequences of what can happen if you don't take care of
your mouth.
Most individuals have some inflammation of the gums -- i.e.
gingivitis -- that goes unchecked. A study published in the National
Library of Medicine reports that 10 to 15 percent of adults will develop
severe periodontitis, which is an advanced form of gum disease that
begins to deteriorate bone, too.
"Gingivitis has always been a major concern for the public," explains
Dr. Harold Katz, a bona fide dentist to the stars, who founded the
California Breath Clinic in Beverly Hills. Katz, also a bacteriologist,
has a legacy of oral care research, including creating the high-quality
line of TheraBreath products (therabreath.com).
"But more studies are emerging that support the idea that dental
health can reflect your overall health, too. Gum disease can contribute
to an increased risk for heart disease, and it can worsen diabetes. Bad
oral hygiene may even be a risk factor for dementia," Katz added.
According to Katz -- as well as mounting medical research -- poor
oral hygiene can lead to many physical problems. The Journal of the
American Geriatric Society just released a study showing that elderly
people who brushed their teeth less than once a day were up to 65
percent more likely to develop dementia, compared to seniors who brushed
daily.
Dental check-ups can also point out other areas of concern among
pregnant women. A professor at the European Society of Human
Reproduction and Embryology's annual meeting suggested that gum disease
can affect healthy conception much like obesity. Plus, pregnant women
have a 65 to 70 percent chance of experiencing pregnancy gingivitis,
where gums develop exaggerated inflammation and plaque buildup due to
fluctuating hormones.
Expectant mothers with gum disease even suffer a higher risk of a
premature birth. But oral hygiene can work toward prevention, too.
Reuters Health just released findings that indicate pregnant women with
gingivitis who use mouthwash have more of a chance of carrying their
baby to full term.
Another study recently presented to the American Heart Association
revealed that patients who received routine teeth cleanings had a 24
percent lower risk of heart attack than those who didn't maintain
regular dental care.
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