I recently read that gum disease can cause all different types of deadly health conditions. I'm a senior who brushes regularly and flosses occasionally. What can you tell me about this?
Hate to Floss
Dear Floss:
By taking better care of your mouth (which includes daily flossing), you could actually add years to your life! Here's what you should know.
Gum Disease
Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is a silent epidemic in this country. Currently, 80 percent of all adults in the United States have some form of gum disease- which ranges from simple gum inflammation called gingivitis to a serious disease called periodontitis that can infect the gums, bone and other tissue surrounding the teeth.
Dangerous Consequences If you have gum disease, you have greatly increased your risk of having a heart attack or stroke. How? Because the bacteria-rich plaque that builds up on your teeth (that's what causes gum disease) releases toxins into your bloodstream that can inflame your arteries and cause small blood clots. But that's not all. There are other health problems linked to gum disease such as pancreatic cancer, respiratory diseases, kidney disease, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, stomach ulcers and even pregnancy complications.
Full article:
http://www.qgazette.com/news/2007/0905/Senior_page/023.html
