The mouth is the visible gateway to the rest of the body and reflects what is happening deep inside. Oral health problems can have an adverse effect on the quality of life and are more prevalent in older adults but are not necessarily caused by aging. Studies indicate that population with good oral care require less health care dollar expenditures.

Thirteen percent of the U.S. population is considered older, or over the age of 65, with increases expected to reach 20% by 2030 (92 million Americans).

Literature confirms that the high incidence of certain systemic conditions may be linked with poor oral hygiene, which includes: diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, nursing home aspiration pneumonia, and physical/mental disorders.

It has been shown the existence of a strong link between the effects of chronic oral inflammation and general health. Periodontal disease has been linked to systemic disease; likewise, the systemic disease can have an impact on oral health. In fact, there are over 100 systemic diseases that have oral manifestations, such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, respiratory infections, pancreatic cancer, diabetes, and nutritional problems. This is a bidirectional relationship and the link is inflammation.

Approximately 75% of baby boomers will enter long-term care facilities with the majority of their natural teeth and this trend is expected to continue. Studies indicate that residents with good oral care require less health care dollar expenditures.

It is imperative to do your regular check-ups and daily oral routine in order to prevent periodontal (gum) disease, and consequently other systemic diseases.

Call our office at (305) 857-0990 for a consultation and for instructions on how to keep your smile for a lifetime.

For more information visit www.sharpdentistry.com

Sources: https://jdh.adha.org/content/89/4/229

https://www.dhss.delaware.gov/dph/hsm/files/oralhealthcaremanagementreport.pdf

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19883892