Poor oral hygiene affects more than just your mouth. Most everyone knows that improper brushing and flossing routines lead to gum and tooth problems. Studies in the last few years also indicate negligent habits can lead to systemic health problems. Those health problems affect the whole body. 

     In 1998, The American Academy of Periodontology announced that research had shown “that periodontal (gum) infection may contribute to the development of heart disease… increase the risk of premature, underweight births, and pose a serious threat to people whose health is already compromised due to diabetes and respiratory diseases.” In the August 2001, issue of Consumer Reports On Health (page 7) stated, “periodontal disease, or infected gums…infection can get into the blood stream and damage the heart’s arteries and valves.” It went on to explain, “people with more severe gum disease tended to have poorer lung function.” These people have an “increased susceptibility to infection.”

     Periodontal disease is very common. Contributing factors include diabetes, smoking, bruxism (clenching and/or grinding teeth), genetics, stress and of course, poor oral hygiene habits. The usual characteristics of periodontal disease are inflamed gingiva (reddened gums), bleeding gums, loss of supporting bone and ligaments holding teeth and eventual tooth loss. Infections complicate the control of diabetes and could lead to infective endocarditis. That is the inner lining or the valves of the heart.

     Good oral hygiene is accomplished by good brushing with a soft head toothbrush. Begin first with a dry brush, going in a gum-to-end of tooth direction. Brush the inner sides then the outer. The biting surfaces are also brushed. The teeth are rebrushed with toothpaste added. The tongue needs to be scrubbed as well. The final steps are flossing and a final rinse with a mouthwash. Ask your dentist or dental hygienist for more detailed instructions on brushing and proper oral hygiene. In an online article, Periodontal Disease, on Medscape’s CBS HealthWatch (http:healthwatch.Medscape.com) states that “rinsing the mouth with water after eating can reduce bacteria by 30%. It is also important to replace your toothbrush every three to six months.

     Preventative dental care twice a year can prevent problems from developing. The teeth and gums can be checked and plaque removed with a cleaning. Plaque harbors bacteria. It is money well spent because the problems that can develop both orally and systemically are far more debilitating and expensive. Remember to include your mouth in your wellness plans.

© 2001 Joy B. Burch, RN All rights reserved