For older Australians, a healthy mouth means a healthy body
Author: Dion Kramer
Author: Dion Kramer
This is an article that recently appreared on virtualmedicalcentre.com.
Health experts now say taking a look inside the mouth may provide a snapshot of the overall health of the body, especially for those aged over 55 years.
If you are over 55 years of age you should know that recent findings suggest that the improvement of oral health may have a positive impact on your general health, and addressing oral health issues can prevent illness, assist the diagnosis of serious conditions early and maintain optimum overall health.1
Dr Neil Hewson, President of the Australian Dental Association (ADA), says indicators for a range of serious diseases that particularly confront those over 55 (but can be equally applicable to us all), such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, oral cancers and even Alzheimers and Hodgkins disease, can often be detected by careful professional examination by dentists of patients mouths. As Australians get older, they have an increased susceptibility to some common illnesses and early diagnosis of these can prevent some serious consequences.
Dentists are in a position to look out for symptoms that present within the mouth, which might indicate that a patient may be at risk of a range of different health conditions.
The ADA has developed a self-check test that allows adults of all ages to answer a couple of simple questions, which may indicate that they might be at risk of these conditions, says Dr Hewson.
Diabetes: Gum diseases such as gingivitis (the first stage of periodontal disease) can contribute to higher blood glucose levels. Professional treatment of gum disease, combined with regular brushing and flossing, will reduce infection and can help improve blood glucose levels.
Cardiovascular disease: Current evidence suggests periodontal disease (bacterial infection in the gums around the teeth) can lead to systemic inflammation in the arteries, which can in turn lead to cardiovascular disease.2
Oral cancers: People between 55 and 64 years are most at risk of chronic mouth diseases, including oral cancer.3 Oral cancer most commonly occurs on the borders of the tongue, on the lips, and on the floor of the mouth. Patients with a white or red lesion that persists for longer than two weeks are encouraged to have their dentist review any unusual lesions.
Alzheimers disease: A recent study revealed that missing teeth and chronic inflammation of the mouth can significantly increase the risk of developing Alzheimers disease. Systemic inflammation caused by periodontal disease can go on to damage brain tissue which can lead to Alzheimers disease.4
Hodgkins disease: Bacteria that cause gum disease release toxic byproducts into the bloodstream, which can increase levels of blood sugar, cholesterol and C-reactive protein (CRP). If treatment of gum disease does not lower levels of blood sugar, cholesterol and CRP, it could indicate that a patient has an underlying health condition such as Hodgkins disease.5
Reduced saliva flow: Occurs as a result of drugs commonly used in the 55+ age group and the drier mouth can lead to increased tooth decay and soft tissue lesions. Patients need to discuss with their dentist the medications that they are taking, so that the dentist can provide advice on preventative care. Sometimes their doctor may be able to change their medication, which can also help.About the Author:
NobleDentist offers low dental fees guaranteed for members at dentists, cosmetic dentists, and dental clinics throughout Australia. NobleDentist also provides a directory of dentists and dental clinics around Australia. For more information, visit
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