FIVE THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT YOUR MOUTH

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.