ORAL HEALTH NEWS FLASH:

The Surgeon General's Report confirms the importance of oral health to total health...

HEART DISEASE: Recent studies have shown that a patient with periodontal disease is twice as likely to develop heart disease as one without the condition.

ORAL CANCER: Oral cancer is more common than leukemia; skin melanoma; Hodgkin's Disease; and cancers of the brain, liver, bone, thyroid gland, stomach, ovaries, and cervix; and is typically caused by long-term use of tobacco products and alcohol. One of the most important parts of a regular oral health exam is a thorough oral cancer screening.

DIABETES: Periodontal (gum) disease is one of the major complications of diabetes. In fact, approximately 95% of Americans who suffer from diabetes also have periodontal disease.

Flossing & your heart:
"Flossing isn't just good for your gums; it may also protect your heart. Recent evidence supports the theory that people with gum disease are at significantly increased risk of artherosclerosis, the thickening of the arteries that causes heart attacks and strokes." Source: Reader's Digest Medical Update/ October 2002

IMPORTANT LINKS:

California Dental Hygienist Association
American Dental Hygienist Association
UOP Center for Special Needs