| It is often less recognized that the possibility that oral health could have an effect on general health or disease status. The oral cavity is a portal of entry with access to the blood stream, respiratory system and digestive system. Usually, anything that can happen in your body can happen in your mouth. It’s all made of the same stuff: blood, lymph, muscle and skin.
Therefore, a thorough examination of the mouth for periodontal (gum) disease, skin lesions, canker sores, ulcers and rashes — any of which could be indicative of a more widespread illness — should be done periodically. Recent studies have now reported associations between oral infections (primarily gum disease or pyorrhea alveolaris) and diabetes, heart disease, adverse pregnancy outcomes and other health conditions.
Diabetes
In diabetes, there is a growing acceptance of the association with periodontal (gum) disease. There is a remarkable dose/response consistency between increased prevalence and severity of periodontal disease in uncontrolled diabetic individuals when compared to the healthy population. In fact, diabetic patients are not only more prone to periodontal (gum) disease, but that periodontal (gum) disease affects glycemic control by altering the action of insulin.
Heart Disease
Research suggests that periodontal (gum) disease may be a more serious risk factor for heart disease than hypertension, smoking, cholesterol, gender and age. New studies suggest that people who have gum disease seem to be at a higher risk for heart attacks. Certain bacteria in gum infections and dental plaque are being linked to ischemic heart damage, an early warning sign of heart attack.
Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes
Periodontal (gum) disease may contribute to adverse pregnancy outcomes as a consequence of a chronic oral inflammatory bacterial infection. Human case-control studies support the association between gum disease and significant reduced fetal weight.
Cancer
Dentists are often in the first line of diagnostic defense against skin cancer, with premalignant skin lesions commonly appearing in and around the sun exposed lower lip. Cancer may originate in one area and metastasize to other areas of the body.
Oral cancer includes cancer of lips, tongue, buccal mucosa, floor of mouth, and pharynx. Tobacco usage is the primary factor, but others include alcohol consumption, painful and ill-fitting dentures and chronic inflammation. Oral cancer is two times more prevalent in males.
Digestive Problems
Tooth Erosion (wear) can be indicative of digestive problems such as Gastric Reflux Syndrome or Bolemia, which upon examination can be diagnosed and treated.
What should I do?
Keep your mouth healthy! See your dentist at least twice a year for periodic maintenance. Gum disease is a serious infection that should always be taken seriously. Always remember that gum disease is caused by plaque buildup. Brush and floss regularly to remove plaque that you can’t see below the gumline. If you remove the plaque you minimize the chance for getting periodontal (gum) disease. If you have any questions about your oral health, ask your dentist.
(Editor’s Note: David C. Houpt, D.M.D. practices in Silverdale. He may be reached at (360) 692-9437, drhoupt@msn.com, or on the Web at www.geocities.com/drhoupt). | 
