Healthy Living

with Dr. Madelyn Fernstrom

 

Oral Health: A Window to Your Overall Health

Your mouth can reveal a lot about you. I don't mean a dazzling smile (always nice), but the other parts of the oral-health picture many of us don't think about too often - if at all. Preventive oral health is a key component of general health and wellness.

The term "oral" refers to your mouth, and includes your teeth, gums and supportive tissues. Most of us know the foundation of a healthful oral profile: regular brushing and flossing, and routine dental exams once or twice a year. But how many of us do this consistently? It's also essential to be aware of the possible warning signs of oral disease, including oral cancers.

Bacteria are naturally found all over the mouth. Daily brushing and flossing usually keep bacteria under control. So does saliva, which contains enzymes that can destroy bacterial overgrowth. With healthy gums, the bacteria never get a chance to enter your bloodstream.

Multiple problems can occur with gum disease - when bacteria can seep into the bloodstream and spread infection that can sometimes be hard to control if you have certain medical conditions.

Cavities are the most commonly seen oral-health problem. One estimate showed that 85 percent of adults reported having at least one cavity. Cavities occur when mouth bacteria mix with food and saliva to form a coating, called plaque. The plaque contains acids that can wear away tooth enamel and create a "hole" - known as a cavity. Good oral hygiene helps reduce or eliminate cavities, but some people have a more acidic mouth environment and tend to have more cavities. A discussion with your dentist is important if you're prone to cavities, despite excellent brushing and flossing.

Gum disease is a frequent cause of tooth loss in adults. It occurs in stages and is easily recognized. Gingivitis is the first and most common stage, involving gum irritation and bleeding. Periodontitis is a more severe infection, which occurs between the teeth and gums. It can lead to bone, and ultimately, tooth loss. When you first notice bleeding gums when brushing, make a visit to your dentist a priority. Treatment at the early stages of gum disease is very effective. Why risk losing your teeth with a preventable disease?

Oral cancers, most often seen in people over 40, are found on the tongue, lips and floor of the mouth. Oral cancers are not typically painful and are frequently diagnosed in late stages when treatment is more difficult. Because many people don't visit their dentist regularly, the risk can be even more serious. Check with your dentist about some new in-office screening tools for oral cancers.

The special needs of oral health in people with diabetes and heart disease are well-documented. Pregnancy is also a temporary but important change to your oral-health profile. For all of these conditions, check with both your dentist and your primary-care physician to make sure you're meeting your health needs.

Bottom Line:

• No matter what your age, it's time to make your dental health a priority. Establish a relationship with a dentist with whom you feel comfortable.
• Go for a checkup at least once a year (twice if possible, depending on your specific needs).
• By having a track record of your oral health, you and your dentist can develop a personalized screening and treatment plan that can minimize, and sometimes eliminate, future dental problems.

If you have a health question for Dr. Fernstrom, e-mail her at fernstrom@wqed.org.

 

Dr. Madelyn H. Fernstrom, Ph.D., C.N.S., is the founder and director of UPMC's Weight Management Center. She is the diet and nutrition editor for NBC's "Today Show" and is the author of The Runner's Diet. Also visit "Health Journal with Dr. Madelyn Fernstrom," a health and wellness blog at iVillage.com.