subject: Dental-Body Connection [print this page] Tooth Or Consequences? Tooth Or Consequences?
If someone asked you what the #1 cause of tooth loss is, what would you guess? If you?e like most people, you would probably guess that it? Cavities. Unfortunatelyou would be wrong.
FALLACY: Cavities are the number-one cause of tooth loss.
FACT: Periodontal disease is the number-one cause of tooth loss. According to the 1996 American Dental Association/Colgate survey, U.S. dentists say gum disease is a more pressing oral health concern than tooth decay by a 2-to-1 margin.
FALLACY: Tooth loss is a natural part of aging.
FACT: With good oral hygiene and regular professional care, your teeth are meant to last a lifetime. However, if left untreated, periodontal (gum) disease can lead to tooth loss. It is the primary cause of tooth loss in adults 35 and over.
FALLACY: Gum disease doesn't affect your overall health.
FACT: Emerging research links periodontal disease to other health problems including heart and respiratory diseases, preterm, low birth weight babies, stroke, arthritis, and diabetes.
FALLACY: Gum disease is a minor infection.
FACT: The mass of tissue in the oral cavity is equivalent to the skin on your arm that extends from the wrist to the elbow. If this area was red, swollen, and infected, you would visit the doctor. Gum disease is not a small infection. Its result-- tooth loss, leads to a very different lifestyle--dentures. The changes in your appearance, breath, and ability to chew food are dramatic.
FALLACY: Pregnant women should skip professional dental checkups.
FACT: Teeth and gums are affected during pregnancy like other tissues in the body. In order to decrease the risk of damaging the gums and tissues surrounding the teeth, pregnant women should schedule an appointment for a periodontal evaluation, especially during the mid-trimester.
Your gums are the framework for a picture-perfect smile. Our office focuses on the health and treatment of gums and bones, working together to correct and prevent damage caused by gingivitis, periodontitis or other gum diseases. Maintaining healthy gums strengthens the foundation of your mouth and overall health.
