New Study Connects Poor Dental Health to Serious Health Issues
In the past, the significance of maintaining good dental health has been discussed on this site and its sister publication, Aging Defeated. However, after hearing about the dental issues faced by my older and younger friends and family members, I believe it is necessary to address this topic once again.
There seems to be a lack of awareness that the health of your teeth and gums is crucial for your overall well-being.
Recent research has shown that common dental problems can lead to serious health conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s disease. Let's explore the latest findings...
Overview
First, some positive news... Recent dental health statistics reveal that older adults are able to retain their teeth for a longer period of time.
Overall, the occurrence of partial and total tooth loss in seniors has decreased from the early 1970s to the latest National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, conducted from 1999 to 2004.1
Experts credit this improvement to better hygiene practices and fluoridation, resulting in people retaining their teeth for a longer duration compared to the past. (Please note that this information is based on expert opinions.)
In an article by The New York Times, Dr. Stephen Shuman, who leads the oral health group at the Gerontological Society of America, mentioned, “Decades ago, losing teeth and getting dentures was expected.”2
I vividly recall a time when many older individuals in my hometown wore dentures, often at a relatively young age, in their late 40s or 50s.
Dealing with Aging Teeth
Although the situation has improved significantly, the aging process still affects teeth and gums. With age, gum tissue naturally recedes, exposing roots to decay, and the wear and tear from chewing food can damage tooth enamel, creating opportunities for various bacteria to cause infections.
According to the National Center for Health Statistics, about one in five Americans aged 65 or older have untreated cavities, and two in three suffer from gum disease.3
Unfortunately, retirement often coincides with the loss of employee-sponsored dental care, precisely when it is needed the most!
Dentists like Dr. Shuman caution that neglecting dental care can have severe long-term repercussions. In addition, poor oral health (and tooth loss) impacts your appearance, speech, dietary choices, and overall quality of life. However, the most significant risk associated with poor dental health is to your immune system.
Why Neglecting Dental Hygiene Can Affect Overall Health
Do you experience inflammation and bleeding in your gums frequently? This condition is known as gingivitis, which can be reversed with proper dental care and regular cleaning.
However, if left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontal disease, a chronic inflammatory condition that triggers the body's immune response.4 When bacteria and inflammation enter the body, it opens the door to various health issues.
Let’s delve into the scientific evidence behind these dental-related dangers...
Increased Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease
Before you consider skipping a dental check-up or neglecting your daily oral hygiene routine, consider this: A review of studies revealed that individuals with periodontal disease are three times more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease.5
Researchers suggest that the systemic inflammation caused by periodontal disease weakens the blood-brain barrier, leading to brain inflammation through several mechanisms.
This inflammation reduces blood flow in the brain, promotes the accumulation of tau protein (a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease), impairs communication between brain cells, and results in a decline in memory function.
Increased Stroke Risk
Medical professionals have long associated chronic infections with various cardiovascular issues. A recent study published in the Journal of The American Heart Association established a direct connection between oral bacteria and strokes.
In this study, researchers analyzed saliva and arterial blood samples from 75 stroke patients with an average age of 67 years and found bacterial DNA, predominantly oral bacteria DNA, in the blood of 84% of these patients.
The researchers concluded that “Recurrent transient bacteremia, triggered by poor dental hygiene or bacterial infections, might entrap pathogens in atherosclerotic plaques and promote plaque rupture,” which can lead to a stroke.
They emphasized the importance of regular dental care in preventing acute ischemic strokes.
While dental care may not be commonly discussed in heart health guidelines provided by most doctors and specialists, the research emphasizes its significance.6
Increased Cancer Risk
Studies have identified a correlation between periodontal disease and an elevated overall cancer risk.7 In a recent investigation, scientists explored this cancer risk in older women.
In a study conducted in 2017, the dental health of postmenopausal women was examined. Researchers analyzed fourteen years of health data from 65,869 women aged 54 to 86, collected through the Women's Health Initiative Observational Study. The findings indicated that women with periodontal disease had a higher risk of developing breast, esophageal, gallbladder, skin, colon, and lung cancers.8
Although the exact mechanism is not confirmed, scientists speculate that periodontal pathogens could enter the bloodstream and reach distant parts of the body.
Increased Diabetes Risk
Researchers have also established a connection between diabetes and periodontal disease.9 Studies indicate that the severity of periodontitis in diabetic individuals correlates with difficulties in managing blood glucose levels.
Scientists are investigating this link, suggesting that immune responses and inflammation play key roles in this association.
They concluded that “Managing diabetes is likely to reduce the risk and severity of periodontitis. Furthermore, evidence suggests that resolving periodontal inflammation can enhance metabolic control.”
Caring for Your Teeth, Even on a Budget
The primary step in daily preventative tooth and gum care involves brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups.
Understanding that many individuals avoid dental visits due to cost, I conducted some research and discovered cost-saving tactics.
According to the American Dental Association, if your dentist proposes an expensive treatment, you may negotiate the price. For instance, upfront payments could lead to reduced costs.10
Another option is visiting a dental school clinic, as listed on the American Dental Association's website. These clinics are supervised by licensed dentists, providing students with hands-on experience while offering significant cost savings, sometimes up to 70% off certain procedures.
Additionally, low-cost dental care providers may be accessible in your locality. For more details, visit ToothWisdom.com. Another alternative is seeking dental treatment in Mexico. Despite the negative perception of the country, largely due to poverty and drug-related issues, dental practitioners are trained to U.S. standards and offer services at a fraction of the cost in the United States.
Meanwhile, remain vigilant about oral hygiene. Dentists often emphasize that early detection of dental issues leads to more affordable care and reduces health risks. Remember, preserving your smile can yield long-term health benefits.
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