Oral Hygiene
Mouth is a window
| Download this episodeOral hygiene and good health go hand in hand. Most people know that oral health is important but are unaware of the link between the mouth and the rest of the body in regard to general wellness. The mouth is a window into what’s going on in the rest of the body, a vantage point for detecting the early signs and symptoms of many diseases. Systemic conditions such as AIDS or diabetes, for example, often first become apparent as mouth lesions or other oral problems. In fact, according to the Academy of General Dentistry, more than 90 percent of all systemic diseases produce oral signs and symptoms. Research has shown saliva itself to be a helpful diagnostic tool. Routine saliva testing can measure illegal drugs, environmental toxins and antibodies indicating hepatitis or HIV infection. In the future, saliva testing may replace blood testing as a means of diagnosing diseases such as diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, cirrhosis of the liver and many infectious illnesses.
Bad breath
Download this episodeThe food you eat affects the air you exhale. Certain foods, such as garlic and onions, contribute to objectionable breath odor. Once the food is absorbed into the bloodstream, it is transferred to the lungs and you breathe it out. Brushing and mouthwash will only mask the odor, which will continue until the food is absorbed. If you don’t brush and floss daily, particles of food remain in the mouth, collecting bacteria that can cause bad breath. Food that collects between the teeth and around the gums can rot and leave an unpleasant odor. One of the warning signs of gum disease is bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth. Gum disease is caused by plaque, the colorless film of bacteria that forms on teeth. The bacteria create toxins that irritate the gums. In the advanced stage of the disease, the gums, bone and other structures that support the teeth become damaged. With regular checkups, your dentist and dental hygienist can detect and treat gum disease early.
Dental fillings
Download this episodeThe debate over the safety of dental fillings with mercury in them has been going on for many years. Amalgam fillings are actually composed of more mercury than silver, roughly about 50 percent mercury. Dental experts contend that when mercury is bound to the other metals, it’s encapsulated and doesn’t pose a health risk. Consumer groups, however, contend that mercury, a known neurotoxin, does leak out in the form of mercury vapor and then gets into the bloodstream. While amalgam has been used in tooth restorations worldwide for more than 150 years, recent studies have failed to find any link between amalgam restorations and any medical disorder. Only a very small number of people are allergic to amalgam fillings. Fewer than 100 cases have ever been reported, according to the American Dental Association. In these rare instances, mercury may trigger a response similar to a typical skin allergy. If there is a confirmed allergy, another restorative material will be used.
Tooth decay
Download this episodeChildren aren’t the only ones who should worry about tooth decay. Adults of all ages can have cavities, too. The causes of tooth decay are the same for everyone, regardless of age. Decay results when the bacteria in plaque feed on the carbohydrates in our diet to produce acids that demineralize the tooth, resulting in cavities. The nature of the decay problem, however, does change somewhat as people grow older. Adults are more likely to have decay around older fillings. Adults are also prone to gum recession, which puts them at greater risk for developing cavities on the roots of the teeth. Tooth decay is also promoted by dry mouth, a condition called xerostomia that can be caused by many types of medications or radiation therapy to the head or neck. Saliva is needed to wash foods away and neutralize the acids produced by plaque. If you think you have this problem, talk to your dentist or physician, they may recommend products to help prevent decay.
Get a check-up
Download this episodeThe American Dental Association recommends visiting a dentist and dental hygienist at least twice a year for a checkup and professional cleaning. But there are other ways to maintain good oral hygiene in between visits to the dentist. Brush your teeth twice a day with an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste and clean your teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner. Decay-causing bacteria still linger between teeth where toothbrush bristles can’t reach. Flossing removes plaque and food particles between the teeth and under the gum line. Don’t underestimate the importance of a balanced diet and be sure to limit between-meal snacks. Replace your toothbrush every three or four months or sooner if the bristles become frayed. A worn toothbrush will not do a good job of cleaning teeth. Use a soft-bristled brush because it’s gentler on the gums. Children’s toothbrushes often need replacing more frequently than adults because they can wear out sooner.Trusted by thousands of listeners every week, T. Glenn Pait, M.D., began offering expert advice as the host of UAMS’ “Here’s to Your Health” program in 1996. Dr. Pait began working at UAMS in 1994 and has been practicing medicine for over 20 years.