July 28, 2005 • ISSUE 40 / VOLUME 1

Good dental care vital to well-being

Research links gum disease, health problems

Professional cleanings are the only way to remove calculus on teeth above and below the gum line.

Recent research suggests that there may be a link between gum disease and other health problems. There is evidence that the bacteria in the mouth, which are associated with gum disease, may be linked to heart disease, stroke and diabetes. They have even shown that women with advanced gum disease may be more likely to have an underweight or premature baby.

Over 30 percent of American adults have been shown to have some form of gum disease. In most cases, gum disease can be prevented or treated with good oral hygiene and regular professional care. The early signs of gum disease are gums that bleed easily or are red and swollen. Professional cleanings are the only way to remove calculus on your tooth above and under your gum line. Think of good oral care as a part of a healthy lifestyle. Eat a balanced diet, exercise and brush your teeth!

Do you suffer from headaches or tenderness of the jaw muscles? Do you sometimes find that your jaw locks or moves to one side when you open your mouth? The joint, ligaments and muscles used for chewing food may be involved. This painful condition is known as TMD, or temporomandibular disorder.

Treatment may involve not only your dentist, but your physician as well. You can help modify the pain with heat on the joints, or your dentist may prescribe muscle relaxants, analgesics or anti-inflammatory drugs. Reducing stress by utilizing relaxation techniques, biofeedback and exercise may also help. The dentist can also make a special night guard to help decrease harmful clenching and grinding. The night guard is best when it is made using a special electronic muscle relaxing device (also known as a TENS unit). The TENS unit helps assist the dentist in determining the right place for your to bite that will be the least stressful for your muscles and joints.

For more information, call Dr. Jonathan Okabe, DDS Inc., at 596-0837.