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Five Things You Should Know About
Your Mouth
Knowing these things may help your immune system.
1.
There are over 300 species of bacteria that live in
your mouth. About a dozen of these bacteria are responsible for
periodontal disease - a disease that affects your gums and teeth.
2.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services states
that diseases like cancer or AIDS and their treatments can affect the
health of your gums.
3.
Cytokines are released by the body in defense of
Periodontal disease. These cytokines tax the body’s immune system.
4.
Periodontal disease is a potential contributing factor
for respiratory diseases.
5.
Symptoms of periodontal disease are often not
noticeable until the disease is advanced.
The bacteria that cause periodontal disease and are taxing your
immune system are breeding right now in the cozy, moist, acidic
environment of your mouth. The areas between the teeth are particularly
good breeding grounds because the bacteria are anaerobic (thrive in the
absence of oxygen).
A dentist can diagnose
the disease in the early stages, prior to individuals realizing they have
it. Because 85% of the population
have some degree of the disease, it is extremely important for all HIV
positive individuals to get regular dental check ups.
Periodontal disease is controlled by a disciplined and meticulous
oral cleaning regimen, both at the dental office and at home.
Professional treatment may require below the gum line scraping, three
month check ups instead of the traditional six month, and a prescription
oral rinse. Home treatment requires thorough plaque removal by brushing
and flossing at least twice a day. Because it is a laborious task to
floss, most people don’t. Yet, to prevent and control periodontal
disease, flossing is extremely important. Unfortunately, The Journal of Clinical Periodontology reported
that for those that do floss, only 18 – 35% of the plaque between teeth
is removed. And oral irrigators can’t cut through plaque’s sticky
biofilm.
Today, we all have a
better chance of keeping our immune system healthy. One way is diligent
and thorough oral health. More tools are available to keep teeth and gums
healthier than in the past. If you are among the 95% of the population that does not floss every day, you
may find it valuable to rely on an appliance that cleans and flosses at
the same time (www.dentalairforce.com). Whatever method of cleaning used,
studies show that oral health is critical to total health.
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Author is P.,
Piero D.D.S. practicing dentist and inventor of the Dental Air Force®,
(www.dentalairforce.com). His private practice and public talks are dedicated
to patient education. Contact Dr. Piero at 616-399-8511.
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