New Study: Possible Link Between Obesity and Gum Disease

According to the Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD), the countries of Mexico and USA are among the highest in levels of obesity among both adults and children.

Statistics reveal that approximately one-third of Americans are classified as obese. The increased prevalence of this condition has led to OECD projections that more than two out of three people will be overweight or obese in some OECD countries by 2020.

Obesity can negatively impact your overall physical and emotional health, and is linked to a host of serious health issues including diabetes, heart disease, and some forms of cancer. Interestingly, a recent article published in the January/February 2013 issue of General Dentistry also indicates that it may also play a role in the prevalence of gum disease.

Establishing the Oral-Obesity Connection

The lead author of the article noted that researchers believe that:

“Obese individuals’ bodies relentlessly produce cytokines, proteins with inflammatory properties. These cytokines may directly injure the gum tissues or reduce blood flow to the gum tissues, thus promoting the development of gum disease.”

Unfortunately, gum disease already affects a significant percentage of the American population and can also have a negative influence on your overall health, which is commonly referred as the oral systemic link. Ongoing research on this matter will no doubt reveal more on this oral systemic link.

The habits you develop today can have a significant impact on the state of your current and future oral health. Make the following habits a regular part of your oral health regime:

• Brush with fluoride toothpaste twice a day and clean between your teeth daily.
• Eat a balanced diet, limiting the intake of foods and beverages high in sugar.
• Visit your dentist regularly for a professional cleaning and checkup every six months or so.

Contact our office today to help you and your family achieve smiles that are both healthy and dazzling.

What do you think. Why is there such as increase in cases of obesity nowadays? Share your thoughts below!