Floss or die is a phrase coined by Dr. Raul
Garcia, a research periodontist from Boston, at a recent
dental research conference. The phrase was picked up by the
Associated Press and received extensive news coverage this
past summer. Since the original AP news release, a large
number of newspapers and magazines have run related stories
on the possible association of periodontal disease with a
series of potentially life-threatening disorders. Credible
scientific evidence now exists that strongly suggests causal
associations between poor periodontal health and certain
systemic illnesses. This evidence includes:
Did you know your real age could be four years older than your chronological age, if you have gum disease? Want to live 4 more years? Learn
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*Major References. Learn
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* Heart Disease. Oral bacteria may compromise cardiovascular
health by promoting the formation of blood clots and fatty
deposits. Periodontitis has been implicated as a risk factor
for cardiovascular disease, comparable in importance to
elevated cholesterol. Learn
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*Birthweight. Women with periodontitis are eight
times more likely to give birth to premature low-birthweight
babies. The inflammatory process associated with gum diseases
appears to promote pre-term delivery. Learn
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Low birth weight children are more likely to develop cardiovascular
problems later in life. An article makes the comparison
that: "like a poorly made car, an undernourished fetus
is more likely to break down later." Learn
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*Diabetes. Periodontal diseases may make it more
difficult for people who have diabetes to control their
blood sugar. In addition, diabetics with periodontitis
are more likely to have heart attacks than those with healthy
gums. Learn
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*Respiratory Disease. Oral infections, including
periodontitis, are associated with increased risk of respiratory
infection and endocarditis, especially in those with chronic
obstructive pulmonary disease.
Researchers are only beginning to sort out the causal
relationships involved between periodontal disease and
other serious health problems. There is one underlying
fact, however, that forms the basis of all clinical findings:
Periodontal disease is a bacterial plaque induced infection.
Suppressing plaque formation is critical in lowering the
risk of periodontal disease-related illnesses that may
be fatal. A regular re-care schedule and root planing where
indicated are essential in the prevention and treatment
of periodontal disease. Of even more importance, however,
is effective plaque removal on a daily basis.
Daily brushing with a manual toothbrush has been shown
to have limited effectiveness in the interproximal (between
the teeth) areas. Typically, the onset of periodontal disease
begins in these interproximal areas, so it is imperative
that these areas be cleansed of plaque on a daily basis.
Unquestionably, floss is designed to effectively clean
these areas and does work. Unfortunately, fewer that ten
percent of the population ever flosses regularly or effectively.
Perhaps, the correlation between lack of flossing (periodontal
disease) and life-threatening illnesses will provide new
incentive for people to use it.
Now, more than ever, the statement by Dr. Mayo, of the
famed Mayo Clinic, takes on appropriate significance: "Daily
plaque control can add ten years to your life. "
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