Periodontal disease and tooth decay are diseases of bacterial origin. Meticulous oral hygiene and using antibacterial rinses and solutions are ‘things’ you can and should do at home!
COMMON ORAL SYSTEMIC QUESTIONS
Q: How much does it cost to treat gum disease?
A: Like most services, the cost of treating gum disease is based upon the time required and the difficulty of the procedures involved. Each person has unique and individualized problems which must be accounted for in determining a proper course of treatment. A proper evaluation will determine the extent of the disease and map out the best course for treatment along with its attendant costs. As usual, costs can be dramatically reduced and controlled by thorough and meticulous control of bacteria biofilms which will promote faster healing and better health maintenance.
Q: Why should I go to an AAOSH dentist?
A: Dentists who are members of our academy show a special interest in the general health and well-being of their patients and how the health of the mouth affects their general health. They pay special attention to emerging science and newer technologies and procedures which reduce health risk factors and assure better health for their patients. The AAOSH brings together allied health sciences and professionals and provides a wide variety of educational opportunities that help member dentists to practice with the best clinical judgment and clinical skills possible. Together this promotes excellent care for their patients and encourages proper inter-disciplinary care when necessary.
Q: I am worried that conditions in my mouth may be impacting my general health – what can I do?
A: It is good to be aware that problems in your mouth may be impacting your general health. If you are concerned that conditions in or around your mouth may be increasing health risk factors you should consult with a dentist who is trained in oral-systemic healthcare.
Q: Is gum disease the only oral health problem that is tied to the rest of the body?
A: No. There are other oral health conditions which have significant impact and consequence to the rest of the body and your general health. We know that gum disease is linked to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, pregnancy complications, Alzheimer’s, certain cancers, etc. Other conditions include oral cancer, oral airway and sleep apnea, TMJ – headaches & migraines, dental decay, and biocompatibility of dental filling materials (in genetically susceptible individuals). These connections between the mouth and the body highlight the importance of good oral health and dental stability in assuring better general health.
Q: Is bad breath a sign of gum disease?
A: In a word, yes! Bad breath, or halitosis, happens when bacteria and dead skin cells and other organic debris, decay and putrefy, producing sulfur compounds which give the characteristic bad breath smell. These bad-breath chemicals can cause breakdown of delicate gum tissues allowing bacteria and their toxins to enter the gum tissue easier as well as the body’s circulatory system. Chronic bad breath should always be viewed as a bad sign and a risk factor for tissue breakdown and disease. Generally, cosmetic attempts to mask it with standard mouth rinses fall short of what’s needed to cure bad breath and rid oneself of the bacteria which causes it.
Q: How do I choose the right dentist for me?
A: Choosing a member of the AAOSH is a good place to start. Our growing membership from across the US and in countries around the world assures that you can find a dentist in your vicinity who understands the principles of dentistry closely linked to the “mouth-body” connection. Look for dentists who take advantage of educational opportunities to be on the cutting edge of oral systemic healthcare and incorporates these principles into their practice. Talk to your dentist, develop a plan and make sure to request close focus on these matters which are important to you.
Q: What can I do at home to protect my oral health?
A: Periodontal disease and tooth decay are diseases of bacterial origin. Meticulous oral hygiene and using antibacterial rinses and solutions are ‘things’ you can and should do at home! By taking better care of your teeth and making it a priority to spend necessary time in this pursuit, you can be better assured of a health mouth and of lowered risk factors for developing other general health problems.
