Are there systemic health risks related to poor oral health?
Quoted by Senator John Breaux (D-LA), ranking member of the Senate Aging Committee, In Nothing to Smile About on
Older American’s Oral Health Report Card” Senate Aging Committee Examines Ageism in Dental Care, September 22, 2003.
What You May Not Know….
- Oral Health and Pneumonia
“The most common result of poor oral health in aged
persons is pneumonia. The risk of pneumonia is
greatest when gum disease, dental caries, and poor
oral hygiene exist in combination with limited
ability to swallow, mobility and function” -
Oxford Journals; Clinical Infectious Diseases,
Geriatric Oral Health and Pneumonia Risk, 2005
- Oral health and Coronary Heart Disease
“Bacteria that originates in the bloodstream from
poor oral hygiene has been linked to atherosclerosis
(hardening of the arteries), coronary artery disease
(heart disease), and stroke. - Oxford Journals;
Clinical Infectious Diseases, Aging and Infectious
Disease, 2002
- Oral Health and Diabetes
“Diabetes frequently results in bone loss caused by
periodontitis”. - Oxford Journals; Clinical
Infectious Diseases, Aging and Infectious Disease,
2002
- Impact of Medications and Oral Health
“Hundreds of common medications - including
antihistamines, diuretics, pain killers, high blood
pressure medications and antidepressants - can cause
side effects such as dry mouth, soft tissue changes,
taste changes, and gum problems that can cause pain
and result in inadequate nutrition” – American
Academy of Periodontology web site;
http://www.perio.org
Go Back
|
|