Frenzy at the root of the study is something that researchers call the biofilm. If the word "biofilm" makes the images of horror or science fiction Scream festivities, so you're not far away. In real life, biofilm is a sticky, colorless film that develops on the teeth and is commonly known as plaque. And 'this complex reef-like substance that builds up over time, with the stage of gum disease and can lead to life-threatening health problems.
Gum disease is also known as periodontal disease, and covers the various stages of the disease, including gingivitis and periodontitis. Periodontal literally translates as "around the tooth". Interestingly, the disease progresses, he manages to dig itself more fully around the affected tooth or teeth.
The initial stage of gum disease is gingivitis, which occurs when plaque begins to inflame the gums redden them, swell and bleed easily. Usually, there is little to no discomfort during this phase. Therefore, gingivitis is usually visit the dentist regularly. If diagnosed and treated, gingivitis is completely reversible.
If gingivitis is not treated can lead to periodontitis, which occurs when the plaque spreads below the gum line. The bacteria associated with plaque produces toxins that trigger additional inflammation. Over time, this increased inflammatory response ultimately, deterioration of bone and supporting tissues of the affected teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss. Once installed the periodontitis, the treatment is essential to manage the inflammation and minimize damage.
It is estimated that 80% of American adults have some form of gum disease. Smoking, heredity, stress, medications (including birth control pills, antidepressants and heart medicines), pregnancy-related or gnashing of teeth, poor nutrition, diabetes and other systemic diseases have all been implicated as risk factors for disease.
The link between gum disease and systemic diseases is the focus of a series of ongoing studies. What we know now is that no definite link between gum disease and heart disease, diabetes and pregnancy complications. Currently, researchers are investigating whether inflammation, bacteria or a combination of both are at the heart of the relationship between gum disease and other health problems.
In case of heart disease, doctors have long known that heart patients at risk of developing an infection of the mitral valve after teeth cleaning routine. Bacteria released during cleaning can enter the bloodstream and travel to the heart, where an infection can occur. (For this reason, heart patients are usually prescribed antibiotics before dental treatment as a precaution.) Now, researchers are uncovering new links between oral health and heart disease. In a study recently published in The New England Journal of Medicine, researchers found that the treatment of serious gum disease can improve the function of blood vessel walls, improving heart health. Researchers are now moving their attention to determine whether the treatment of serious gum disease will result in fewer heart attacks, strokes and other cardiovascular problems.
Diabetics are at particularly high risk for gingivitis to develop the disease at a rate of 3 to 4 times higher than non-diabetics. The alleged perpetrator is the body's inflammatory response, which can have devastating effects on glycemic control. Diabetics with untreated gingivitis, it is almost impossible to control their blood sugar and diabetes treatments often fail to work. But with regular treatment of gum disease, your blood sugar usually managed effectively. Interestingly, no correlation between gum disease and diabetes do not always come with a problem of insulin. A study in the Journal of Periodontology recently reported that gum disease some people predisposed to develop early signs of diabetes. It is a clear link between oral health and blood sugar control exists.
A study published earlier this year in the Journal of Periodontology revealed that bacteria normally present in inflamed gums have been found in the placentas of pregnant women with high blood pressure. Scientists had suspected that the link between gum disease and complications of pregnancy existed. This suspicion was confirmed in a study by the University of Chapel Hill. Steven Offenbacher, DDS, PhD, who led the study announced earlier this year, "Our findings indicate that periodontal disease progression during pregnancy contributes to preterm labor and delivery especially very preterm (less than 32 weeks) which places infants at high risk of neonatal problems and disability. "Although these results may seem bleak, the good news is that pregnant women can safely receive treatment for gum disease during pregnancy. Successful treatment can reduce infection and inflammation and reduce risks to the fetus.
The search continues, the researchers gave further understand the impact of oral health. Despite increased understanding of the importance of solving this puzzle, there are steps you can do at home to take care of your health today. I recommend the following steps for all my patients to maintain a healthy and beautiful smile:
Be sure to brush your teeth after every meal and floss daily
See your dentist every six months to a year of study and X-ray
See a hygienist every four to six months in Peru thorough cleaning
If you notice swelling, redness or bleeding gums, you should contact your dentist immediately
If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, monitor and complete your treatment plan as described by your dentist, hygienist and periodontist.
Andy Rooney once said: "A smile is an inexpensive way to improve your appearance." I think it could be just a simple way to improve your health, too!
See Also:
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