The saying is that everyone takes their teeth for granted unless they have a cavity. This underscores a very real problem. It is too easy to think that dental care is only useful for preventing tooth pain. Instead, it boosts our overall health too.
Between one- and two-thirds of Canadians have had a cavity or have been treated for one. The number isn’t really known because many people self-treat or don’t treat at all. Of more concern is that about 11 per cent of Canadians have periodontal or gum disease. And a third of us admit we don’t brush our teeth at all.
Dental decay (i.e. cavities) results from the combination of carbohydrates or sugars and other debris left on the teeth. These materials make an ideal breeding ground for micro-organisms, mainly streptococcus, staphylococcus and lactobacillus. The bacteria form a sticky film on the tooth surface which is commonly called plaque.
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The bacteria in plaque excrete acidic substances which damage enamel leading to tooth decay. When plaque hardens, it becomes tartar which is difficult to remove from teeth. As well, periodontal disease involving inflammation and infection of the gums can happen and worsen dental health.
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An additional result of poor dental health is that, even with tiny damage to mouth tissues, excess sugars and bacteria in the mouth can enter the blood stream. With these extra bacteria in the cardiovascular system, the risk increases for inflammation and plaque formation in blood vessels leading to clogged arteries that in turn can contribute to heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure. The bacteria can even infect the pericardium (the tissue surrounding the heart) and cause endocarditis.
There is also a link with diabetes. Diabetes itself can lead to an increased risk for poor dental health, and, conversely, poor dental health can worsen control of diabetes.
As well, increased numbers of bacteria in the mouth mean there is an increased risk that they might be inhaled and lead to pneumonia. In pregnancy poor dental health is also linked to premature birth and low birth weight, and studies seem to show a relationship between mouth infections and Alzheimer’s disease symptoms, although it is not known why, and poor oral hygiene can also increase the risk for sleeping problems, pancreatic cancer, oral cancer and even obesity.
Sometimes, it is a medication that increases the risk for dental problems and thus the other various health issues. When a drug causes dry mouth, it may mean there will not be sufficient saliva to help wash away debris, plaque and even bacteria from teeth and gums. Some examples include antihistamines, decongestants, narcotic pain relievers, high blood pressure drugs, antidepressants, and even bladder control drugs.
To avoid this problem sucking on a sugar-free hard candy or ice chips, sipping water or even using an artificial saliva product will help. Some medications, for example phenytoin, cyclosporin and calcium channel blockers such as amlodipine and nifedipine can cause gingival hyperplasia or overgrowth of gum tissue which in turn can lead to an increase in dental disease.
Some individuals have an increased risk for poor dental health, for example smokers and people who have frequent sugary snacks and beverages as well as diabetics, people with a family history of dental problems, women experiencing hormonal changes in menopause, and individuals with acid reflux or frequent vomiting.
Individuals with such risks need to be very careful with their dental habits. By avoiding sugary snacks and tobacco products and by eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, some of these risk factors will be reduced.
Knowing all this, we should all be motivated to pay attention to our dental health. This means brushing teeth at least twice daily — morning and night, and after eating is ideal. Floss at least once a day, but before brushing, so that brushing will remove any debris that is loosened. Dental floss is sometimes difficult to use, but there are floss picks and water flossers; regardless of the option chosen, the idea is to get between the teeth to remove debris and sugars which can lead to plaque and dental decay. For overall good health, good dental care is essential.
