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A few years ago, an extremely sick, 2½-year-old boy came to the Houston office of pediatrician Ray Wagner, MD, with a 105-degree temperature. The illness, which required five days of hospitalization and a course of intravenous antibiotics, got its start in an infected tooth; which, in turn, resulted from poor dental hygiene and a lack of dental care. Dr. Wagner, who was then an assistant professor at the University of Texas Medical School, decided to use this case as a hook for an educational session on oral health.
"We discovered that early childhood caries [tooth decay] was the most common chronic disease of children," he said. "We were all shocked."
Now a staff physician at El Rio Community Health Center in Tucson, Ariz., he is one of more and more physicians who are looking at patients' mouths and teeth before moving on to their throats. These doctors are motivated by both firsthand experiences and the scientific literature documenting that health in this area makes a difference to the whole body.
An increasing number of physicians are educating patients on cleaning teeth and gums and advising parents on reducing the risk of transmitting cavity-causing bacteria from their own mouths to their children's. Fluoride varnishes are being applied to teeth in doctor's offices, and dentists are being added to the list of specialists consulted as needed.
"The mouth is part of the body," said Wanda Gonsalves, MD, associate professor of family medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. She began her career as a dental hygienist. "I'd really like dentists and physicians to co-ordinate more and not have the mouth treated as a totally separate entity."
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Full Article: http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2008/03/03/hlsa0303.htm
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Posted by DougDunlap at
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By CHERIE BLACK
P-I REPORTER
When physicians list the complications that come with having diabetes, they mention heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, possible blindness and amputations, neuropathy and even depression.
What isn't routinely mentioned, if it is talked about at all, is periodontal disease, a serious gum infection that causes tooth loss in adults.
It is usually painless, and often goes undetected, but as physicians see more diabetics with gum disease and tooth loss, they believe there is a link between the two.
To better look at the connection, Group Health and Washington Dental Service are launching a study to explore the relationship between periodontal disease and diabetes. They also hope to raise awareness in medical doctors and dentists when caring for diabetic patients.
During the one-year study funded by Group Health and a grant from Washington Dental Service, researchers will look at records from people age 40 to 74 who belong to both Group Health and Washington Dental Service to see if gum disease is linked to diabetes, blood sugar levels and other health problems.
The study also will look at the difference in how a diabetic's care is managed and the cost difference between those who receive routine medical and dental care and those who don't.
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"People really care about their teeth and smile and this is an additional reason for diabetics to take care of themselves," Reid said. "Potential kidney disease in 10 years is a difficult motivator, but if you know you may lose your teeth much sooner, it's an incentive."
Full Article: http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/health/352407_diabetes25.html
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Posted by DougDunlap at
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It may not just give you a bad case of the munchies: Regular marijuana smoking appears to increase young adults' risk of gum disease, a problem typically associated with aging.
As part of a long-term health study, a team led by researchers at the Dunedin School of Medicine in New Zealand followed about 900 people born in 1972 and 1973 to assess the effects of marijuana on periodontal disease.
While it is well known that cigarette smoking and spotty use of dental services are risk factors for gum problems that can lead to inflammation and eventual tooth loss, the role of marijuana alone had not been examined previously.
The researchers divided participants into three groups: About 33 percent did not smoke pot, 47 percent smoked fewer than 40 times per year, and 20 percent smoked more than 41 times per year, beginning at age 18. All had dental checkups at age 26 and 32.
Overall about 42 percent showed some signs of periodontal disease at 32. After controlling for dental checkups, tobacco use and presence of plaque, researchers found that about 24 percent of the heaviest smokers showed some signs of gum problems, compared with 11 percent of infrequent users and 6 percent of those who did not smoke pot. . .
Full Article: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/02/15/AR2008021503710.html
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Posted by DougDunlap at
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| The raised consumption of dairy products helps to protect health of teeth and gums, the Japanese doctors of the Kyushu University in Fukuoka have found out. Having analysed the periodontal health of 942 people in the age of 40-79 years, stomatologists have drawn a conclusion, that those who consumed dairy products on a regular basis - milk, cheese, yoghurt - had low risk of an inflammation of gums, formations of caries and other forms of damage of a tooth.
Inclusion in a daily food allowance, at least, of 55 grams of dairy products considerably reduces the probability of formation of deep caries and development of chronic bacterial infections on teeth and gums, the physicians say. The dairy acid and vitamins containing in it protect the bone fabric supporting teeth and prevent formation of preconditions for periodontal diseases which is the main reason of loss of a tooth and mentions health of millions people. Besides, the disease of gums conducts to infringement of work of heart and brings the negative contribution to the risk of cardiac impact, a bony rarefication, diabetic complications and frustration of respiratory function. Thus, according to researchers, dairy products help to protect not only a beautiful smile, but also the whole organism.
Full Article: http://usadentalcare.biz/?p=29
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Posted by DougDunlap at
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Posted February 14, 2008
Derita Malcom had a recent revelation—one profound enough that her two adolescent kids hear about it every night. "I preach: 'Take care of your teeth,'" she explains. Removing her upper denture before bed, Malcom, 49, tells her kids, "Look at mama's teeth" and the damage caused by gum disease. "I had such a fear of the dentist that I really neglected my mouth," says the elementary school secretary from Chesterfield, Va. The consequences are not limited to her mouth.
Malcom's diabetes may have been harder to manage because of her long neglect of oral health. Before she underwent a series of dental procedures last year, Malcom's A1c level, which reflects blood sugar control, was far above the safe range. Now, since she has a new dedication to home care and is nearing the end of her dental work, Malcom's sugars are closer to normal. "I didn't make the connection that it could improve my diabetes," she says. She's not alone.
Three in four American adults have at least mild periodontal (gum) disease, or gingivitis. More severe disease, or chronic periodontitis, may affect as many as 30 percent. Regardless of severity, gum problems can be quite stealthy; pain is minimal and bleeding or reddened gums may be the only sign. Yet disregarding oral health could have serious overall repercussions. Recent research suggests that uncorrected gum issues make blood sugar more difficult for diabetics to control. Diabetes, in turn, can cause or worsen gum disease. "It's a two-way street," says Susan Karabin, president of the American Academy of Periodontology. The underlying mechanisms are not fully understood, but gum disease involves chronic inflammation—which can trigger insulin resistance, a hallmark of diabetes—and also bacterial infection. "Periodontal disease creates the wound that allows [oral bacteria] to gain access to the rest of the body," explains Steven Offenbacher, director of the Center for Oral & Systemic Diseases at the University of North Carolina...
Full Article: http://health.usnews.com/articles/health/2008/02/14/your-way-to-a-healthy-smile.html
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Posted by DougDunlap at
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Have you ever thought that brushing and flossing your teeth may improve your life? The media commercials all point out that fresh breath and whiter teeth are possible, but are there other benefits? According to several recent studies, improving your oral health can improve your defenses against diabetes, heart disease, low birth weight and even dementia.
In the past, several interesting theories existed attempting to explain a relationship between oral health and total body health. Since the time that the Dutch scientist Antony van Leeuwenhoek looked at his own dental plaque under an early microscope in 1683, proof of bacteria in the mouth has been widely known. How that bacteria may affect other areas of the body has been debated.
One popular theory, called the focal infection theory, was proposed in the early 1900s. It was believed that microorganisms in the mouth caused several other problems away from the oral cavity, including gastric problems, brain abscesses and lung diseases. As this theory gained acceptance, teeth were extracted if there was even a small chance of infection present.
By the 1930s, there were a lot of questions being asked about the focal infection theory. There wasn't any scientific data to back the theory and there were several unhappy people without teeth who may have asked if there was a better method to treat oral infection.
Interestingly enough, in the 1980s studies began to be published which did link bacteria found in the mouth with conditions like coronary heart disease, stroke and lower pre-term birth weight.
By the year 2000, in the U.S. Surgeon General's report a clear link had been noted between oral disease and systemic diseases, like those previously listed, plus diabetes and bacterial pneumonia. In fact some of the most recent studies confirm low birth weight for mothers suffering with periodontal disease and a very recent study that correlates tooth loss to dementia.
Good oral health and oral hygiene is essential for better overall health. There are many ways to improve one's oral health, beginning with an adequate brushing method. (The toothbrush itself was invented by the Chinese in the 1600s, but it has come a long way.) One current message is to brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush at least twice a day for two minutes. Electric, sonic and even ultrasonic toothbrushes may help increase efficiency.
Brushing alone is not enough, however, as plaque and bacteria build up between teeth where the brush will not reach. Using dental floss to clean those areas is the most effective way to remove plaque. One can also use numerous other interdental cleaners to assist with these regions. Some examples would be small interproximal brushes if more space exists between teeth or a water spraying device to help flush out debris.
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Full Article: http://www.pal-item.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080213/NEWS13/802130326
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Posted by DougDunlap at
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Solutions to common oral problems
What is one thing people love to see another person do? Smile. To have a nice smile, one has to have a nice set of teeth. To have good teeth, you have to put some effort into keeping them healthy.
Keeping them healthy means you have to see that dentist twice a year, whether you like to visit him/her or not. It also means you should brush twice daily and don't forget to floss. Using mouth rinses also helps in keeping our breath fresh and sometimes may actually help us to prevent cavities, and more trips to that dentist.
Yes, even if we do everything we are suppose to be doing, we might still experience some small, yet common mouth problems. Here are a few simple solutions to some common problems that you might be able to solve on your own and save yourself a trip to the dentist.
Bad breath
Nothing is worse that getting close to someone and smelling bad breath. We all have experienced it. Yet, nobody wants to be that person with the bad breath. How can we avoid it?
Bad breath is caused by bacteria forming in our mouth. Bacteria can come from the foods we eat and the particles they leave behind in our mouths. Bacteria can also form from the buildup of caffeine and alcohol.
The reason the bacteria is building up is because of bad oral hygiene. The person isn't always brushing or flossing as he/should. This means the bacteria grows and the smell grows with it.
The best cure for bad breath is to floss and brush daily. Also one should drink plenty of fresh water and use mouth wash.
If you continue to have bad breath, even though you are practicing good oral hygiene, consult your doctor because this could be a sign of a medical condition.
Canker sores are those white bumps that occur inside our mouths. They aren't contagious, in fact experts aren't really sure what causes them. Yet, some doctors believe that hormonal changes may play a factor in their development.
Antibacterial mouthwashes may help the sores to heal quicker and may help keep more from coming. Stick with nonalcoholic washes. The alcohol may make the sores sting, as may the acids from fruits or fruit drinks.
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Teeth sensitivity
Many things can cause teeth sensitivity such as, TMJ, gingivitis, brushing your teeth too hard, using too many tooth whitening products and drinking and eating too many sugary foods.
Regular brushing and flossing can help with the sensitivity. Use a soft bristled brush and take your time. Invest in a desensitizing toothpaste. Don't eat or drink so much sugar.
Finally, if the sensitivity continues see your dentist. It could be a sign that a cavity has developed, especially if the sensitivity is to warm liquids.
Yes, you should still see your dentist every six months. This is one trip you shouldn't avoid, if you want to continue having good oral health and a beautiful smile.
Full Article: http://www.informativepost.com/2008/02/14/Solutions-to-Common-Oral-Problems-325.htm
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Posted by DougDunlap at
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ST. LOUIS - (Business Wire) Delta Dental of Missouri (Delta Dental), the largest dental benefits provider in Missouri, today announced the introduction of its new MAXAdvantageSM benefit option that effectively extends the amount of treatment covered under the plan year maximum benefit amount (the dollar value limit of coverage for each member for each benefit year). The new MAXAdvantageSM benefit option also encourages members to obtain preventive care because their plan year maximum benefit amount is no longer reduced when members take advantage of most basic diagnostic and preventive care, such as routine and comprehensive dental exams, as well as periodontal exams; X-rays; cleanings for children and adults; and child and adult fluoride and fluoride varnishes. In effect, this increases the coverage reach of the plan year maximum benefit amount, as more of the maximum is reserved for treatment for other restorative or major care.
“Unlike ‘maximum rollover’ options, which accrue at the end of the year for next year’s coverage for only those who have not hit their maximum, the MAXAdvantageSM accrues immediately and is available to all members with no additional paperwork or applications for members to complete,” says Richard Klassen, Chief Marketing Officer for Delta Dental of Missouri. “We want to promote wellness and preventive care for all in a way that immediately benefits our members: that’s why we believe MAXAdvantageSM is a richer benefit than most ‘maximum rollover’ options,” added Klassen.
The new MAXAdvantageSM benefit option is now available to all new and renewing Delta Dental of Missouri clients. When employees are encouraged to obtain preventive care and have more funds available for restorative and major care, the net result may very well be a long-term reduction in dental claims costs.
There also is mounting scientific evidence of a relationship between oral health and overall health that suggests that improved oral health, especially periodontal health, may help reduce costs associated with some health conditions. It is said that routine oral health care is:
Helping Diabetics Control Blood Glucose Levels
A number of research studies, including one supported by Delta Dental at the University of Michigan and University of Detroit Mercy, show that when diabetics have their teeth cleaned professionally, their blood glucose levels are easier to control. This is significant because glycemic control has proven to be one of the best ways to prevent complications of diabetes.
Helping Pregnant Women Give Birth to Healthy Babies
Premature birth is on the rise in the U.S., and periodontal disease has been identified as a potential contributing factor. Scientific evidence indicates that pregnant women with gum (periodontal) disease are seven times more likely to give birth to premature babies. According to the National Institutes of Health, as many as 19 percent of the 250,000 premature low birth weight infants born in the U.S. each year may be attributed to infectious oral disease.
Helping to Identify Other Systemic Health Problems
Routine oral health exams can also uncover signs and symptoms of a number of additional diseases and medical conditions. According to the American Dental Hygienists’ Association some of these include heart disease, osteoporosis, eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia, HIV and some types of cancer.
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Full Article: http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/delta-dental-of-missouri-introduces-new-maxadvantagesm-benefit-option-to,279892.shtml
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Posted by DougDunlap at
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| Tobacco smoke is known as a primary cause of periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. Now a new study finds regular use of cannabis (marijuana) is also associated with an increase of gum disease.
Researchers in New Zealand conducted a study looking at marijuana and gum disease. They included more than 900 participants who were born in 1972 or 1973. The participants were asked if they smoked marijuana at ages 18, 21, 26 and 32. The answers included never, some and often. Some was considered to be one to 40 times total during those four years, and often meant more than 41 times.
Study authors report at age 32, about 43 percent of participants had periodontal disease. New periodontal disease between ages 26 and 32 was greatest in the group who used marijuana often. Furthermore, after controlling for tobacco use and other factors, those in the group that used marijuana often had a 60 percent greater risk of having periodontal disease.
The authors write, “The study’s demonstration of a strong association between cannabis use and periodontitis experience by age 32 years indicates that long-term smoking of cannabis is detrimental to the periodontal tissues and that public health measures to reduce the prevalence of cannabis smoking may have periodontal benefits for the population.”
Full Article: http://www.ivanhoe.com/channels/p_channelstory.cfm?storyid=18113
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Posted by DougDunlap at
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By Dr. Elizabeth Smoots
Herald Columnist
Did you know that good dental hygiene keeps more than just your mouth healthy? A growing body of evidence suggests that maintaining healthy teeth and gums is important for the health of your entire body.
Oh, come on … How could that be? Well, it turns out that gum disease releases bacteria and their products into the bloodstream. This can trigger a whole host of disease and problems throughout the body.
For the sake of your overall health and well-being, it's essential to properly care for your teeth.
Periodontal disease
It's a common condition that can progressively lead to damage of your gums. It starts with the accumulation of dental plaque -- a sticky, colorless material that accumulates at the gum line of your teeth.
Next, bacteria thriving in the plaque produce toxic substances. The toxins cause gum inflammation or gingivitis, which eventually progresses to destruction of the soft tissue and bone that supports our teeth.
An estimated 80 percent of American adults have some form of gum disease. Red, tender and swollen gums, or those that bleed easily when brushed, are early signs of the disorder. The majority of people, however, have no early symptoms. The condition can lead to gum pockets, loose teeth, a changed bite or poorly fitting dental appliances.
Full-blown periodontitis, the leading cause of tooth loss after age 35, affects about 35 percent of adults in the United States.
Who is at risk?
In one word: Everyone. Gingivitis, or periodontal disease, typically develops in people who don't take proper care of their teeth. Other risk factors for gum disease include smoking, diabetes, pregnancy and chronic illness. Cortisone and birth control pills can worsen gum disease, as can certain medications used to treat high blood pressure, seizures or cancer. Excessively vigorous brushing or flossing of your teeth, or having ill-fitting dental appliances, may also injure your teeth and gums.
Linked conditions
The body responds to gum disease by producing inflammatory substances to help hold plaque bacteria at bay. These substances, along with toxins produced by the bacteria, can enter the bloodstream and provoke harmful inflammation in tissues far away from the mouth.
Scientists have found early evidence of an association between periodontal disease and the following disorders:
Heart disease: People with chronic gum disease have a risk of death from heart disease that is about three times greater than people with healthy gums, according to some research.
Stroke: One study showed that men who had lost several teeth because of periodontal disease had a 57 percent increased risk of stroke compared to men with less tooth loss.
Diabetes: Diabetics with gum disease have a harder time controlling blood-sugar levels.
Premature childbirth: Mothers with gum disease are seven times more likely to give birth to a premature or underweight infant.
Pneumonia: Excess dental plaque may make you more susceptible to catching pneumonia when your resistance is low, such as when you're sick or recovering from surgery....
Full Article: http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20080212/LIVING/220434718
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Posted by DougDunlap at
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