From The Mouth To Other Parts of The Body
When you speak of oral health, you refer to the health of the teeth, gums, and the entire oral-facial structure that allows you to smile, speak, and chew. There are some common diseases that impact oral health today and that include cavities (tooth decay), gum (periodontal) disease, and oral cancer.
Cavities or Tooth Decay
Cavities are one of the most common, if not the most common chronic diseases of childhood. They are generally preventable, but they continue to be one of the most common problems not only in children but also in adults, that last an entire lifespan. About one-fourth of young children, half of adolescents and more than 90% of adults experienced tooth decay. Untreated tooth decay affected 10% of young children to 26% of adults aged 20–64. If tooth decay remains untreated, they can lead to abscess under the gums and can spread to other teeth in the mouth. They can also lead to tooth loss. Sometimes, in severe cases, tooth decay can even affect other parts or systems of the body, such as the heart and the blood.
Gum (Periodontal) Disease
The condition is mainly the result of infections and inflammation of the gums and bone that surround and support the teeth. Diabetes, a weakened immune system, heredity, and poor oral hygiene are chronic conditions that increase one’s risk for periodontal disease. Tobacco use is another, as well as dry mouth syndrome. If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to bone destruction when teeth lose its support and can be unsalvageable.
Oral Cancer
There were nearly 45,000 new cases of mouth cancer (including cancer of the pharynx) diagnosed in the US and more than 10,000 related deaths. The 5-year survival rate is about 61 percent. The mortality rate from oral cancer is nearly three times as high in males as it is in females (4 vs 1.4 for every 100,000 people). Early detection is key to increasing the survival rate. Smoking is its number one cause. Though more research is warranted, HPV, the most common sexually transmitted disease, may cause oropharyngeal cancers in the back of the throat.
SourceSeeing The Mouth-Body Links in Lynnwood
At Song Dental, we seriously take the links between oral health and its issues to other parts of the body.
