Mouth-Body Connection: What You Need To Know
Research Shows a Strong Connection Between Oral and Overall Health
A report from the surgeon general supports this. This connection was made as far back as 2000. Our goal is to educate our patients and help them take better care of their oral health so that we can optimize their long-term overall health.
Inflammation Is the Root Cause of All Major Diseases
Scientists from around the world agree that inflammation is the root cause of all the major diseases like cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and even Alzheimer’s.
- Time, 2004
Research Shows More Than 120 Systemic Diseases Originate From the Mouth
- Journal of AHIMA, 2010
Oral health and related diseases have a significant effect on the severity of chronic illnesses including heart disease, oral cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease.
Gum Disease and Diabetes, a Two-Way Relationship
Diabetic patients are more likely to develop gum disease, which then increases blood sugar. It has been shown that the relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease goes both ways. Gum disease may make it more difficult for diabetics to control their blood sugar, and high blood sugar makes one more susceptible to infections.
The More Severe Your Gum Disease, the Higher Your Risk of Stroke
If you have severe periodontitis, the risk factor increases 4.3 times over people with mild or no periodontitis
-Stroke (an AHA Journal, 2004)
Decreasing Your Oral Hygiene Increases Your Risk of a Heart Attack
Those reporting less frequent toothbrushing had a 70% increased risk of cardiovascular disease even compared to those who brushed their teeth twice a day.
-British Medical Journal, 2010
Sleep Apnea and Your Dentist
Your dentist is likely the first to suspect you may have sleep apnea because of the clues your mouth may present. Sleep apnea can have detrimental effects on your quality of life as well as your overall health.
Sleep apnea increases the risk of motor vehicle accidents, poor work performance, poor school performance, irritability, stress, hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, depression, weakened immune system, and even cancer.
-Airway Summit, 2020
Oral and Pharyngeal Cancer Kills About One Person per Hour
Early detection of oral cancer can save a life!
We make sure that oral cancer screenings are part of your regular dental visits.
-Oral Cancer Foundation, 2016
Gum Disease and Alzheimer's
Some studies have found a link between the bacteria that causes gum disease and Alzheimer's.
Dentists and periodontists recommend that older adults, or anyone at risk, maintain diligent oral care and treat gum disease promptly to help mitigate Alzheimer's risk.