Something to smile about

By Norm DeJong, DDS, MPH, PC and Melanie DeJong, RDH

We live in a health-conscious society. People of all ages recognize the importance of a healthy lifestyle; a balanced diet including plenty of water, regular exercise, and a good night’s sleep. But did you know that good oral hygiene is also a step toward a healthier life?

Regular professional cleanings along with daily flossing and brushing can save you time and money. Early detection of tooth decay and gum disease is more time and cost effective than advanced treatment to catch up on years of dental neglect. There’s no time like the present to get your good habits in gear.

Recent research suggests there may be a link between gum disease and other health problems. Several studies, for example, connect gum disease with the development of cardiovascular problems.

People with diabetes are at greater risk for periodontal disease. Having periodontal disease can make managing diabetes more difficult. If you have diabetes, see your dentist as often as recommended, Keep your blood sugar levels under control. High blood sugar makes it harder for your body to fight infections, including periodontal disease.

Bacteria: Invisible troublemakers Gum (periodontal) disease is an infection of the gums that can destroy bone and other tissues that support the teeth. Periodontal disease develops when a sticky film of bacteria, called plaque, is allowed to build up on the teeth. Although a coating of plaque constantly forms on the teeth, with proper daily cleanings and routine professional cleanings, the plaque can be removed before periodontal infection develops.

Daily brushing and flossing will help keep your gums from becoming irritated by toxins produced by invisible plaque bacteria. In time, plaque can harden into tartar (calculus). Plaque then can build up on the rough surface of the calculus, making it more irritating to the tissues. When tartar or plaque on the tooth builds up on or below the gumline, the gum tissue reacts to that area of deposit as a foreign object because of the irritating toxins produced by bacteria. The body is in a small war with the irritant…the tooth won’t win. The gum is rejecting the irritant thus rejecting or pulling away from that deposit. Gingivitis (red, swollen, bleeding gums) is an early form of periodontal disease.

Periodontitis (gums separate from teeth and deep spaces called pockets can form) happens after prolonged gingivitis. Bacteria can collect in these pockets, and their toxins create more inflammation of the gums, which can destroy the bone that anchors teeth. When the tartar and plaque are removed the tooth and gum can be in harmony again. If the disease is left untreated, teeth may eventually become loose, fall out or require removal by a dentist.

Floss works like a squeegee to remove sticky plaque from between the teeth before it hardens into calculus. Proper brushing removes plaque from the inner, outer and chewing surfaces of the teeth before it can harden to calculus. Eating a balanced diet and limiting snacks also can reduce your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Think of good oral care as part of a healthy lifestyle. Limiting your exposure to the bacteria that cause gum disease not only will improve your oral health, but may protect your cardiovascular system and overall health.

Preventive professional cleanings and checkups, daily flossing and brushing will save you time, money and your teeth.

Prevention is extremely cost effective and floss may be the best dental insurance available.