A recent study by the CDC reports that those who floss daily live 6.4 years longer than those who do not routinely floss! Seriously?!!?
It is true. How long you live and how healthy you are while living are directly related to how well you take care of your mouth. It may seem a bit far fetched but the evidence is consistent. There are a few reasons why your home dental care and frequency to the dental office actually matter for “life & death”.
The first, and most obvious, reason is that early detection and treatment for oral cancer diagnosed by dentists often saves lives. Over 50,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer each year. Oral Cancer Screenings performed during routine hygiene appointments (twice per year) can help to detect early when cures are more likely.
Another reason the health of your mouth directly affects your lifespan is that the same bacteria that causes gum disease, increases the risk of heart disease! The bloodborne bacteria that multiplies in Periodontitis migrates to the heart where the tissue is infected; and muscles and valves are damaged. Untreated Periodontal Disease is related to an increase in risk of heart attacks as well. People with low cardiovascular health have a life expectancy that is 8.9 years SHORTER than those who have healthy hearts, according to the American Heart Association. Luckily, this gum disease is preventable and treatable. Regular hygiene appointments and daily flossing can prevent the bacteria from accumulating in the first place.
A not-so-obvious fact about oral health and longevity is that people who suffer from early tooth loss are more likely to die at a younger age than those who retain their teeth. Yes, saving your teeth can prolong your life! Fortunately, if patients should lose a tooth or teeth early, the options to replace the missing teeth allow them to regain what is considered “functional dentition”. The more functional dentition that a person has, (regardless if natural or restored with dental implants or bridges), the longer the person is predicted to live.
Oral diseases are progressive and can have a substantial effect on someone’s quality of life. They can cause pain, sepsis, and disrupt daily functions like speaking, socializing and eating. Physical and mental health decline is noted with poor oral health at any age when oral disease/dysfunction (decay, Periodontal disease, or missing teeth) is present. SO… if you want to live longer and be healthier while alive, TAKE CARE OF YOUR MOUTH! 😀
