The Most Dangerous Prevalent Disease
When asked what mankind’s most prevalent disease is, most people would say the common cold. But since colds and similar infectious diseases caused by a temporary infection go away in a few days or a week, probably at any time only one percent of the population has colds. But depending upon age, at any moment over half the population has gum disease since once you get it, it doesn’t go away without treatment and according to insurance statistics less than 5% are getting treatment. While no one has been reported to have died because of gum disease directly, it increases the risk for heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes and a host of other life threatening diseases.
The initial stage of gum disease is called Gingivitis, while the more advanced stages with deep pocketing and bone loss are called Periodontitis.
It is estimated that during their lifetime 80% of the U.S. population will develop gum disease and that once it starts it does not usually reverse itself without specialized care.
The good news is we can combat the onset of periodontal disease through diligent brushing and flossing, using toothpaste and mouthwash that specifically combat anaerobic bacteria and sulfur compounds, and improved nutrition and beneficial supplements. Regular visits to your dentist for preventative care and checkups will support your dental health and let you know if you are at additional risk.
Schulhof, Robert J. “Mankinds most Dangerous Prevalent Disease.” Centers for Dental Medicine. 4 April, 2011. 19 April, 2011. http://www.centerfordentalmedicine.com/mankind.html
Dental Tidbit
Does you child go through a tube of toothpaste in two weeks? Too much toothpaste early in life accounts for more than 70 percent of fluorosis cases (staining or mottling of tooth enamel that develops when children swallow fluoridated toothpaste). It is recommended that children under 6 only use a pea size amount of toothpaste.
www.sdadental.com/dental-trivia.html
October is National Dental Hygiene Month!
The American Dental Hygienists’ Association has announced it’s new theme, “Healthy Habits are Easier than You Think,” focusing on maintaining optimal oral health while leading a busy, active lifestyle. Living a life on-the-go can be difficult sometimes, but keeping a healthy mouth shouldn’t be.
Prevention is the focal point of this year’s NDHM. ADHA stresses the value of working to increase public awareness about the importance of preventive services in keeping good oral hygiene and to encourage others to develop and continue with a daily oral health routine. For more information go to http://www.adha.org/ndhm