Gums Play an Important Role in Your Health

We tend to place a lot of value on our smiles. Truth be told, the psychology behind dental visits and upkeep is more about the pearly whites than what holds them in place. Most people pay closer attention to taking care of their teeth than their gums, because their teeth are a gateway to their image. However, the gums play an important role in the health of your teeth, and your health, overall.

The American Dental Association recently released an article linking gum disease to Alzheimer’s disease. According to the article, this new study conducted by researchers at the NYU College of Dentistry found that gum disease may increase the risk for Alzheimer’s disease.

“It’s the first long-term evidence that gum disease may increase the risk of cognitive dysfunction associated with Alzheimer’s disease in healthy individuals as well as in those who already are cognitively impaired.”

The study was led by NYU’s Dr. Angela Kamer, who collaborated with a team of researchers from Denmark, and expands on a 2008 study by Dr. Kamer which “found that subjects with Alzheimer’s disease had a significantly higher level of antibodies and inflammatory molecules associated with periodontal disease in their plasma compared to healthy people.” You can read the article here.

There are many health risks associated with oral issues, tooth decay and gum disease. The best preventative medicine is to keep up with your dental care, flossing, and visits to the dentist office for bi-annual examinations and cleanings.

If affordability is an issue, then American Dental Plan is an answer to keep you and your smile, healthy and happy.