How poor oral health affects your general health
The Dangers of Poor Oral Health are explained by Dr. Chris Kammer for the Quantum Health Oral Care Video Series. Untreated oral health problems can lead to systemic health problems, such as heart disease, memory loss, cancer and even pregnancy complications. Links between oral health and overall health are now clear. Tooth and gum disease has been linked to the following conditions:
- Cardiovascular disease. Research shows that several types of cardiovascular disease may be linked to oral health, including heart disease, clogged arteries and stroke.
- Pregnancy and birth. Gum disease has been correlated to premature birth.
- Memory loss. A study of 270 elderly West Virginians found that 23% suffered from mild memory loss, and there was a correlation between memory loss and gum disease.
- Cancer. One study found that patients with poor oral hygiene had a 63% increased risk of pancreatic cancer.
- Diabetes. Diabetes increases your risk of gum disease, cavities, tooth loss, dry mouth and a variety of oral infections. In addition, bad oral health can exacerbate diabetes. Gum and tooth disease may cause blood sugar levels to rise.
- HIV/AIDS. Oral problems are very common if you have HIV/AIDS. Common symptoms include ulcers, dry mouth and painful lesions.
- Osteoporosis. The first stages of bone loss may show up in your teeth. Dentists may be the first to spot systemic osteoporosis.
As you can tell, your oral health is critical to your overall good health.The American Academy Of Oral Systemic Health has been formed to help physicians and dentists to work closely together for the best health of their patients. They are also on a mission to educate the public so that more people are aware of how their mouth health impacts on their body health. Find out more information by visiting http://www.aaosh.org.
