Studies affirm the consequences of not taking care of your mouth

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. – The value of regular dental checkups has become undeniable in view of the many independent studies confirming the benefits of faithful attention to healthy teeth and gums.

Oakwood Dental, with two locations on Staten Island, says that while most people know about a healthy mouth being essential for white teeth and first impressions, periodic reminders are needed to help prevent risks to overall health.

For example, a study presented to the American Heart Association revealed that people who had routine teeth cleanings showed a 24 percent lower risk of heart attack than those who didn’t maintain regular dental care.

Dental check-ups can also reveal areas of concern for pregnant women. A professor at the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology’s annual meeting suggested that gum disease can affect healthy conception.

Pregnant women, moreover, have a 65 to 70 percent chance of experiencing pregnancy gingivitis, where gums develop exaggerated inflammation and plaque buildup due to fluctuating hormones.

Gingivitis – inflammation of the gums – itself perennially is a major concern for most individuals.

Most people have some gingivitis that goes unchecked. A study in the National Library of Medicine reports that 10 to 15 percent of adults will develop severe periodontitis, which is an advanced form of gum disease that also begins to deteriorate bone.

Research shows, additionally, that gum disease has been found to contribute to an increased risk for heart disease, and it can worsen diabetes.

Bad oral hygiene may even put people at risk for dementia. The Journal of the American Geriatric Society released a study showing that seniors who brushed their teeth less than once a day were as much as 65 percent more likely to develop dementia, compared to seniors who brushed daily.

Whereas the increasing amount of medical research shows that poor oral hygiene can lead to many physical problems, it’s logical to realize that the flip side equates good dental hygiene with prevention.

About Oakwood Dental

Oakwood Dental is a full-service practice featuring seasoned dentists with a wide range of expertise, from general practice and cosmetic procedures to oral surgery, dental implants, dentures and emergency dental care.

Backed by a team of general dentists, periodontists, orthodontists, oral surgeons and endodontists, Oakwood Dental is conveniently located in the Staten Island, New York communities of Oakwood Heights (718-979-2121) and Tottenville (718-356-9800), and in Freehold Township, Monmouth County, New Jersey (732-414-2683).