publication date: Sep 14, 2007
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author/source: Anne Coates
Teens and young adults who have
lost a large number of
teeth through
decay or
gum disease are
one third more likely to
die of
heart disease than those with fewer or no
missing teeth, according to
research led by
Dr Yu-Kang Tu of the University of Leeds.
Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the
British Dental Health Foundation,
commented: "The Foundation has
long held the
view that a
person's oral health has a
major effect on the
rest of the
body and there is mounting
evidence to
support that
view.”
Scientists believe that the
bacteria in the
mouth that causes
tooth decay and
gum disease may enter the
bloodstream and
damage the blood vessel
lining, or
trigger inflammation in the body which leads to
heart disease.
So when
parents insist on their children
cleaning their
teeth properly they are also helping to
ensure they have
better health in later life.
A good
oral healthcare routine for children (and adults!) is
imperative and should
include:
- twice daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste;
- cutting down on sugary foods and drinks;
- once-a-day use of floss or inter-dental brushes;
- and visiting the dentist regularly.
The
British Dental Health Foundation runs a
helpline which offers
free, impartial
dental advice and can be contacted on
0845 063 1188 between 9am and 5pm,
Monday to
Friday.
