How our oral health affects our overall wellbeing

How our oral health affects our overall wellbeing

by | Oct 4, 2024 | News and Research, Oral Links to General Health, Oral Pathogen & Microbiome, Risk Factors

How our oral health could make or break us

Our bodies function as complex, interconnected systems, where each part influences the others. Close attention to how oral health impacts chronic diseases has resulted in increasingly clear research findings. More and more studies now demonstrate the connection between the condition of our mouths and our general health. You may have even seen this link highlighted in the recent Australian Dental Association’s statement on oral and systemic disease. Oral health is now understood to impact the entire body, from your heart and your metabolism, right through to the health of your brain.

Poor oral health could even be considered as increasing one’s risk of an early death. Given it is associated with an increase in one’s likelihood of developing chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease, it really cannot be neglected. Evidence suggests it’s a two-way street, since poor oral health can exacerbate chronic diseases, while chronic diseases can increase the risk of dental problems. Just like an airplane needs both its wings to soar, we rely on excellent oral and overall health for a long and happy life.

What’s the oral-systemic connection?

There are three ways in which oral health connects to chronic diseases. Direct impacts, indirect impacts, and shared risk factors each reveal different ways the condition of one’s mouth is closely linked to their overall health.

Direct impact

This occurs when chronic illnesses or their treatments directly influence oral health, and vice versa. For instance, diabetes, especially when poorly controlled, can lead to high blood sugar levels, creating an environment that promotes gum inflammation (periodontitis). This is because excess sugar in the blood can feed harmful bacteria in the mouth, increasing the risk of infection and gum disease. On the flip side, untreated gum disease leads to chronic inflammation that can spread throughout the body. This systemic inflammation makes it harder for the body to respond to insulin, exacerbating diabetes and leading to a vicious cycle of worsening oral and overall health.

Indirect impact

Oral health and chronic diseases can also affect one another indirectly through treatments, medications, and lifestyle factors. Many people with chronic conditions take medications, but these can have unintended side effects on oral health. For example, antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and certain cancer treatments can cause dry mouth (xerostomia). When saliva production decreases, there’s less natural protection against harmful bacteria, leading to an increased risk of cavities and gum disease.

Moreover, oral health issues like tooth decay, gum disease, or missing teeth can make it difficult to chew, which may limit someone’s ability to eat a healthy, balanced diet. Poor nutrition can further worsen chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or digestive disorders, creating a negative feedback loop where one problem worsens the other.

Shared risk factors

Many oral health issues and chronic diseases share common lifestyle habits and risk factors that can harm both areas. Smoking is a well-known cause of gum disease and tooth loss, but it’s also a major risk factor for chronic illnesses like heart disease, lung disease, and cancer. Smokers are more likely to have inflamed gums, increased plaque buildup, and a weakened immune response, which makes it harder for the body to fight infections. Quitting smoking can significantly improve both oral health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

A diet high in sugar contributes to tooth decay and gum disease, as well as being a key factor in the development of conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes. Cutting down on sugar can improve your oral health and overall well-being, reducing your chances of developing chronic diseases. Likewise, a nutrient-rich diet that includes plenty of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains can support healthy teeth and gums while reducing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses.

Is your oral microbiome your friend or foe?

Your oral microbiome is the community of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, that naturally make their home in the various parts of your mouth. Under normal conditions, these microbes coexist harmoniously, playing a role in maintaining oral health by aiding digestion and protecting against harmful pathogens.

However, when the balance of these microbes is disrupted—whether through poor oral hygiene, diet, or other factors—it leads to a state called dysbiosis. This imbalance can result in an overgrowth of harmful bacteria that cause inflammation and infection, such as gum disease (periodontitis), and can weaken the body’s ability to fight off other health threats.

Dysbiosis in the mouth doesn’t just stay localised—it can have far-reaching effects on overall health. Research has increasingly linked oral microbial imbalances to serious chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.

oral microbiome

Which common chronic diseases are linked to oral health?

Heart disease: Gum disease (periodontal disease) triggers inflammation, allowing harmful bacteria to enter the bloodstream. This can contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries and increase the risk of heart disease. Conversely, heart disease can compromise the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to gum infections.

Diabetes: There is a two-way relationship between diabetes and gum disease. Diabetes weakens the body’s ability to fight infections, which can worsen gum disease. In turn, the chronic inflammation from gum disease makes it harder for the body to regulate blood sugar, complicating diabetes management.

Alzheimer’s disease: Emerging research indicates a potential link between chronic gum infections and Alzheimer’s disease. The inflammatory response caused by gum disease may contribute to cognitive decline, though this connection is still under investigation.

Respiratory illness: Poor oral hygiene allows harmful bacteria from the mouth to be inhaled into the lungs, potentially leading to respiratory infections such as pneumonia, especially in those with weakened immune systems.

Mental health: Chronic dental pain and discomfort can significantly impact mental health, contributing to conditions like anxiety and depression. Additionally, concerns about bad breath, tooth appearance, or other oral health issues can negatively affect self-esteem and social interactions.

Obesity: Obesity is associated with increased systemic inflammation, which can exacerbate gum disease. Additionally, poor dietary habits linked to obesity, such as high sugar consumption, contribute to oral health issues like tooth decay and gum inflammation.

Cancer: There is evidence to suggest a link between poor oral health and certain types of cancer, particularly oral cancers like squamous cell carcinoma. Risk factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and chronic gum inflammation play significant roles in this connection.

diabetes

What’s the mechanism of the impact?

Hormone production: Inflammation in the mouth can interfere with the production of essential hormones, including enzymes like salivary amylase, which aid in digestion. This disruption may impair the body’s ability to properly break down food and absorb nutrients, impacting overall health.

Metabolic syndrome: Chronic inflammation from gum disease can exacerbate insulin resistance, a key factor in metabolic syndrome. This condition involves a combination of health issues, such as high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, and abnormal cholesterol levels, increasing the risk of heart disease and diabetes.

Gut microbiome: The oral microbiome plays a crucial role in influencing the balance of bacteria in the gut. Maintaining a healthy oral environment can support gut health, potentially lowering the risk of metabolic conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes by preventing harmful bacteria from disrupting gut flora.

Immune system: Poor oral health can lead to chronic inflammation, which places ongoing stress on the immune system. This weakened immune response can make the body more vulnerable to infections and systemic health problems beyond the mouth.

Simple steps to impeccable oral health

Maintaining outstanding oral health can significantly improve your overall health and quality of life. It’s worth the effort!

Brush and floss daily: Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes, and floss once daily to remove plaque and bacteria between teeth, preventing gum disease and tooth decay.

Regular dental checkups: Schedule routine dental visits every six months to catch and address issues early, such as cavities, gum disease, or oral infections, before they worsen.

Eat a balanced diet: Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Limit sugary foods and drinks, which can fuel the growth of harmful bacteria and lead to cavities and gum problems.

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Water helps wash away food particles and bacteria, while staying hydrated supports saliva production, which is essential for maintaining a healthy oral environment.

Eat a balanced diet

Use fluoride: Incorporate fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash into your oral care routine. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay.

Quit smoking: Smoking increases the risk of gum disease, tooth loss, and oral cancers. Quitting smoking is a win-win: it benefits your oral health and your overall physical health.

Chew sugar-free gum: Chewing sugar-free gum after meals can stimulate saliva production. This helps neutralise acids and wash away food particles, protecting your teeth between brushings.

Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol can dry out the mouth and erode enamel, increasing the risk of gum disease and oral infections. Moderating alcohol intake helps protect both your mouth and body.

Incorporating these habits can help protect your smile and support your overall health.

Your healthy smile makes for a healthier you

Caring for your oral health goes so much further than giving you a beautiful smile—it’s a truly valuable commitment to your overall well-being. It’s an essential part of proper self-care that simply can’t be neglected. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups are simple practices, yet they can protect your teeth, nurture your body, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. If living a long and fulfilling life is important to you, then a great oral health routine is well worth the effort.

When you prioritise your oral health, you invest in your confidence, vitality, and peace of mind for life. So, keep smiling, cherish each moment, and take pride in your healthy smile which underpins your bright future!

The painful reality of overseas dental care

The painful reality of overseas dental care

by | Aug 16, 2024 | Cosmetic Dentistry, News and Research, Risk Factors

Screenshot from The Project, Channel 10 News – ‘Challenges Faced During Overseas Dental Treatment’ video

What lurks in the shadows of dental tourism bargains

The pull of affordable dental care outside Australia is a strong temptation, especially when you see posts and videos promising impressive results for a fraction of the cost. As soon as you start googling your symptoms, ads for dental tourism pop up everywhere you look—and they do look great! Targeting those likely to be drawn in by a bargain, dental tourism is big business. However, what looks too good to be true often is, and the reality may not match what’s being spruiked.

The real cost of overseas dental treatments often becomes evident when it is too late to hit undo. It’s only after dealing with issues like poor dental work or unexpected complications, many unfortunate patients discover their sad truth. What initially seems like a ripper deal has switched into a situation where the costs and, what’s worse, difficulties of correcting worsened problems outweigh any savings that may have been anticipated.

When it comes to dental care, it is really important to get high-quality and reliable treatment. The draw of a perceived bargain is real, but so are the risks. Choose a clinic where dentistry is well regulated, with a high level of professionalism, legal responsibility and oversight, and where dentists integrate the latest professional knowledge and practices into a safe and effective treatment. This is key to not only achieving the best results but also enjoying peace of mind and ensuring your long-term oral health.

The hidden dangers of dental tourism

The painful reality of overseas dental care

Source: The Project, Channel 10 News – Christine Gwin discussing her personal dental tourism nightmare.

It’s a shame to have to say this, but your interests are not always the top priority for dental tourism operators. It might seem appealing to save money and even sneak in an overseas holiday by opting for dental tourism. However, in a balanced view, it is easy to see that the risks of seeking dental treatment abroad can easily eliminate your happiness and any anticipated savings.

Challenges with follow-up care: One of the primary concerns is the difficulty in maintaining supportive dental visits after treatment. Dental procedures often require ongoing care and regular maintenance, which can be problematic if you’re receiving care in a country far from home. This can mean complications or unresolved issues are challenging to address, because comprehensive follow-up care cannot be provided remotely.

Communication barriers: Effective communication with your dentist and practice staff is crucial for informed consent and understanding treatment plans. Language barriers or differences in medical practices can lead to misunderstandings about your treatment, potential risks, and expectations, which may affect the quality of care.

Risk of adverse outcomes: Dentistry materials and techniques are not held to impeccable standards the world over. There is nothing to gain and much to lose if you encounter adverse oral and general health outcomes from dental treatments performed abroad. Poorly executed procedures or substandard materials can result in long-term health issues that may be difficult and expensive to resolve once you return home.

Insurance and recourse issues: Overseas clinics may not provide adequate insurance cover for complications that arise from treatments. Lack of coverage can leave you financially vulnerable if problems occur. Additionally, finding recourse for treatment or maintenance issues can be challenging without a clear process for addressing these concerns, further complicated by foreign legal environments.

Access to treatment records: When undergoing treatment abroad, you may have limited access to your treatment records. This can confound follow-up care and make it difficult for local practitioners to continue care or address any issues related to the overseas treatment without detailed records of materials and procedures.

Integration of care: If you need further dental work after returning home, finding a local practitioner to address or repair treatment started overseas can be difficult. Concerns may include incompatible product systems, techniques not aligned with Australian standards, and materials not approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).

Health risks: Seeking dental care abroad can also introduce new antimicrobial-resistant organisms and disease transmission risks into Australia, raising additional health concerns for yourself and the nation.

The painful reality of overseas dental care

Source: The Project, Channel 10 News – Dr. Scott Davis commenting on dental tourism risks.

Why local dentistry is an excellent choice

Choosing to get dental care locally provides a range of valuable benefits, including:

High standards and professional competence:

In Australia, dental practitioners undertake rigorous training and are assessed by the Australian Dental Council to ensure they maintain high levels of professional competence. They are required to be registered and adhere to strict standards enforced by the Board, including international best practices in infection prevention and control. This oversight helps guarantee a high quality of care.

Safe and reliable practices:

Australian dental practices are equipped with safe water and materials that meet the highest international standards. Equipment and materials used are subject to strict scrutiny and approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration. This ensures that all procedures adhere to the best practices for infection control and patient safety.

Patient protection and access:

Patients’ rights are well protected through various channels, including the Board, ADA Branch Peer Review and Conciliation Services, State Health Complaint Authorities, and common law. This comprehensive framework provides patients with easy access to their dental practitioners, facilitating prompt resolution of any issues that may arise.

Professional indemnity insurance:

Dental practitioners in Australia are required to have professional indemnity insurance, providing an additional layer of protection for patients. This may not be the case with overseas clinics, potentially leaving patients with fewer options for redress if complications occur.

The painful reality of overseas dental care

Seamless communication:

When you choose a local dentist, you benefit from clear and direct communication without language barriers. This makes it easier to discuss your concerns, expectations, and treatment plans, leading to a more personalised and effective care experience.

Convenient follow-up care:

If maintaining optimal oral health is important to you, then regular check-ups and adjustments are crucial. Having a local dentist means follow-up care is accessible and convenient, allowing for ongoing monitoring and quick responses to any issues that may arise.

Christine’s dental misadventure ends in pain and cost blowout

Source: The Project. (2024). Challenges Faced During Overseas Dental Treatment [Video]. YouTube. Channel 10. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9D6L0EUEHkU

Christine Gwin’s case is a powerful reminder for anyone thinking about dental tourism. Tempted by tantalising savings, Christine, a retired accountant, decided to travel to India for extensive dental work at Dentzz Dental Clinic.

At first the quote for her treatment was around $4,560, which included a dental implant, crowns, and other procedures. She packed her bags and headed to Mumbai, but upon arriving, she was shocked to learn that the clinic’s charges had skyrocketed to $16,000. Even though this was a huge increase, Christine went ahead with the treatment, hoping it would still be cheaper than what she would have paid back home in Australia.

Unfortunately, her problems didn’t end there. After the treatment, Christine experienced severe pain, sensitivity, and trouble eating. When she sought help once she was back in Australia, she discovered that the quality of the work was poor and that fixing her issues would require extensive and expensive corrective procedures—over $50,000.

Christine’s experience brings light to some shady details of dental tourism. The initial price might look appealing, but the long-term costs, including health issues and corrective treatments, can quickly add up. Her account underscores the need for thorough research, careful consideration and local professional feedback on your ideas before choosing dental care abroad.

While some people might have good experiences, the risks—like unexpected costs, mediocre care, and difficulties with follow-up care—are real and cannot be disregarded. Lower-cost dental care is often pursued in vain, with its true costs and complications surfacing later, after oral anatomy has been degraded by poor standards of care and money has already changed hands. In short, it is unpredictable, many times resulting in significant financial and health burdens.

The painful reality of overseas dental care

Source: The Project, Channel 10 – Waleed Aly interviews Dr. Scott Davis on the risks of dental tourism.

Are overseas smiles worth the price?

The struggle is real, when you see lower prices promised by overseas dental clinics versus our prices in Australia. Indeed, there is often a big difference and a lot of it comes down to the quality of the dentistry—you get what you pay for.

In Aussie dentistry, exemplary standards for every aspect of your dentist’s work are mandated by law. These safeguards mean rigorous training, quality materials and treatment (i.e. safe and effective dentistry) is the norm. It does bring a higher cost, but it means patients in Australia can rely on their dentists to do the right thing by them. Plus, patients here have reliable legal recourse if things go wrong. Outside Australia’s borders, dentists are not subject to the same professional standards and legal responsibilities, which means substandard clinics and rogue operators may abound.

So, when considering heading overseas for dental work, weigh the potential for hidden challenges and risks abroad against the safety and quality of local treatment. The variables outside Australia do stack up, with issues such as difficulties with follow-up care, language barriers, and possible long-term health complications. These dental tourism risks can significantly impact your happiness with the experience and wipe out your quality of life for years to come.

The painful reality of overseas dental care

Take your time to talk with your local dentist before you book overseas dentistry. Your regular dentist will be best positioned to thoroughly evaluate your needs and recommend your best treatment options, potentially saving you from the world of trouble Christine encountered.

Choosing local dental care offers several key advantages over care provided abroad. Staying local ensures consistent, high-quality treatment with easy access to follow-up care and support. You benefit from established standards and effective communication with practitioners who are familiar with local regulations and patient protection measures. This level of reliability and peace of mind often proves invaluable.

All in all, your responsibility for safeguarding your oral health and overall well-being sits squarely on your shoulders. Seek professional advice, especially from your local dentist, and keep in mind there is so much to lose if your treatment overseas does not meet your expectations. With your oral health on the line, pause to consider whether you want to gamble with such a core part of your health and well-being.

* Reference

The video and images used are sourced from ‘The Project,’ available on YouTube (2024) Challenges Faced During Overseas Dental Treatments.

How oral bacteria (F. nucleatum) fuels cancer growth

How oral bacteria (F. nucleatum) fuels cancer growth

by | Apr 8, 2024 | News and Research, Oral Links to General Health, Oral Pathogen & Microbiome

How oral bacteria (F. nucleatum) fuels cancer growth

For the longest time, cancer research has focused on on genetic mutations and environmental factors in its search for preventative treatments and cures. But recently, scientists have uncovered a surprising culprit which may increase cancer growth and help it spread: bacteria. One bacterium in particular, Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum), which originates in the oral cavity, has been linked to increased risk of cancers in the mouth and far beyond.

What is F. nucleatum?

F. nucleatum is a cigar-shaped bacteria which is a common resident of the mouth, throat and intestine. While typically harmless, this anaerobic bacteria has been found in higher levels in tumours of the colon, breast, head and neck. This finding has researchers wondering: is F. nucleatum just a bystander in cancer, or does it actively contribute to the disease?

Cancers linked to F. nucleatum

Colorectal cancer: Research has consistently shown a strong association between F. nucleatum and colorectal cancer. In fact, a recent study even identified a specific subtype of F. nucleatum known as Animalis, which is particularly linked to more aggressive forms of colorectal tumours.

Oral cancer: F. nucleatum is commonly found in large quantities within biofilms that coat oral squamous cell carcinomas, indicating a potential involvement in the development of oral cancer.

Breast cancer: The acceleration of tumour growth and the spread of cancer cells (metastasis) in breast cancer cases has also been shown to have a connection with an abundance of F. nucleatum.

How oral bacteria (F. nucleatum) fuels cancer growth

How does F. nucleatum promote cancer?

Researchers are still piecing together the exact mechanisms, but several theories suggest how F. nucleatum can contribute to cancer development:

Boosting cell growth: F. nucleatum has the ability to interact with our cells in a way that accelerates their growth and prevents them from undergoing natural cell death processes. This abnormal stimulation of cell growth can contribute to the formation of tumours.

Breast cancer: The acceleration of tumour growth and the spread of cancer cells (metastasis) in breast cancer cases has also been shown to have a connection with an abundance of F. nucleatum.

Causing inflammation: When F. nucleatum is present, it triggers our body to release substances that lead to inflammation. Chronic inflammation is a known factor in cancer development, as it creates an environment that supports the growth and spread of cancerous cells.

Dodging the immune system: The bacterium has the clever ability to deceive our immune system, impairing its effectiveness in recognising and eliminating cancer cells. By evading the immune response, Fusobacterium nucleatum provides an advantage to cancer cells, allowing them to thrive and proliferate.

Assisting in tumour spread: F. nucleatum plays a role in facilitating the spread of cancer cells by aiding in their invasion of nearby tissues. It achieves this by breaking down barriers between cells and promoting the movement of cancer cells to other parts of the body. This capability enhances the aggressiveness and metastatic potential of cancer.

These are just some of the ways F. nucleatum might be working behind the scenes in cancer development. Research is still ongoing, but the link between this bacterium and cancer is becoming increasingly clear.

How oral bacteria (F. nucleatum) fuels cancer growth

Is everyone with F. nucleatum at risk of cancer?

Having F. nucleatum doesn’t guarantee you’ll get cancer. Many factors contribute to cancer development, and F. nucleatum might be one piece of the puzzle. Additionally, the exact mechanisms at play are still being explored in ongoing research.

Right now, F. nucleatum isn’t used for routine cancer screening. However, understanding this connection might lead to new diagnostic tools to identify cancers harbouring this bacterium. Additionally, researchers are exploring the possibility of targeting F. nucleatum with antibiotics or developing vaccines to prevent its colonisation in tumours.

What can you do?

While there’s no single action to eliminate cancer risk from F. nucleatum, here are some general steps that can promote good health:

Oral hygiene routine: Maintaining excellent oral hygiene practices like diligent brushing and flossing can help reduce the overall burden of bad bacteria in the mouth.

Regular dental care: Visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings to prevent gum disease, a breeding ground for F. nucleatum. Early detection and treatment can make a big difference.

Oral pathogen tests: A few dental clinics now offer advanced oral pathogen screanning and tests to identify specific bacteria in your mouth. These tests can provide more targeted information about your oral health and may help your dentist develop a more personalised treatment plan.

Prioritise preventive care: Regular checkups with your doctor allow for early detection of various cancers, leading to better treatment outcomes.

Embrace a healthy lifestyle: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, combined with regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight, can significantly reduce your overall cancer risk.

Consider probiotics: Probiotics may help create a more balanced gut microbiome, potentially reducing the growth of harmful bacteria like F. nucleatum.

How oral bacteria (F. nucleatum) fuels cancer growth

Healthy habits, healthy you

In light of ongoing research on the connection between F. nucleatum and cancer, the significance of a holistic approach to overall health is clearer than ever. Prioritising good oral hygiene, regular check-ups, a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle helps us build a strong foundation to fight off potential health problems. After all, a healthy body is naturally better at defending itself against health challenges. So, make great oral care habits part of your lifestyle—it’ll help you become a stronger, more resilient version of yourself!

Consider talking to your dentist or doctor about your specific risk factors and how to maintain optimal health.

New studies show gum disease may increase severity of COVID-19

New studies show gum disease may increase severity of COVID-19

by | Oct 15, 2021 | Gum disease, News and Research, Oral Links to General Health, Oral Pathogen & Microbiome, Oral Safety and First Aid, Risk Factors, Signs and Symptoms

Everybody on the planet knows about COVID19. Yet with each day, come new discoveries about this mysterious disease. For many, experiencing COVID19 is no more severe than catching a cold. But for others, they experience far worse outcomes such as respiratory failure and death. The risk for contracting a severe form of COVID19 is higher if you have certain medical conditions including cancer, kidney disease, obesity, type 1/2 diabetes, respiratory conditions, high blood pressure and heart disease, as well as being in an advanced age group. Now, recent new studies reveal that one other health condition may also increase your risk of experiencing severe COVID19 – untreated gum disease and poor oral health.

What is the link between untreated gum disease & COVID19?

German researchers have discovered that when COVID19 patients experienced an inflammatory response leading to respiratory failure, their levels of a pro-inflammatory cytokine called interleukin-6 (IL-6) were elevated. This is the same cytokine implicated in the phrase “cytokine storm” – a term coined to describe the out-of-control immune response occurring in patients with severe COVID19 and other serious auto-immune disorders. People with chronic, untreated gum disease (periodontal disease) experience higher levels of IL-6 as a result of the body’s constant inflammatory response to infected gum tissue. Since elevated levels of IL-6 indicate a strong potential for respiratory complications in COVID19 patients, the authors of the study concluded that treating gum disease and decreasing IL-6 levels may help prevent or reduce severe COVID19 complications.

Earlier British study correlates German findings on IL-6

In June 2020, an English study also found that high IL-6 levels, along with a high oral bacterial load in the mouth, were significant risk factors for severe COVID19 respiratory complications. Their advice: keep good oral hygiene, regular checkups and get gum disease treated!

Treating gum disease to reduce IL-6 levels in the body

The treatment for periodontal disease is quite simple. It is performed by a dentist in a basic dental procedure known as a scale and root planning – a deep dental clean right down to the roots. During this treatment, all oral bacteria are removed above and below the gum line – keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Once gum disease is being properly managed and treated, the body’s inflammatory response winds down along with lower levels of IL-6.

Resources:

Herold, T., Jurinovic, V., Arnreich, C., Lipworth, B. J., Hellmuth, J. C., von Bergwelt-Baildon, M., Klein, M., & Weinberger, T. (2020). Elevated levels of IL-6 and CRP predict the need for mechanical ventilation in COVID-19. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 146(1), 128-136.e4.  https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaci.2020.05.008 Sampson, V., Kamona, N., & Sampson, A. (2020). Could there be a link between oral hygiene and the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infections? British Dental Journal, 228(12), 971–975.  https://doi.org/10.1038/s41415-020-1747-8 Sampson, V. (2020). Oral hygiene risk factor. British Dental Journal, 228(8), 569.  https://doi.org/10.1038/s41415-020-1545-3

CDBS 2022-2023 Dental Treatment Schedule

CDBS 2022-2023 Dental Treatment Schedule

by | Sep 24, 2021 | Fees and Insurance, News and Research, Oral Health Children

The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) was introduced back in 2014 to provide financial support for eligible children aged 2-17 years old to receive essential dental services. This benefit covers the cost of preventative and restorative dental treatments up to a maximum cost of $1,000 over a consecutive 2 years period.

70% of eligible children are missing out on $1000 dental treatment

According to the University of Queensland and Telethon Kids Institute research, 70% of children from low income families are either unaware or not using the CDBS. This has impacted on the oral health of Aussie children with approximately 26,000 kids hospitalised annually for mostly preventable dental conditions. With many frontline dentists being sidelined because of Covid-19 restrictions across Australia, 2020 & 2021 has seen a dramatic drop in preventative dental visits. This could result in delayed diagnosis, deferred treatment, and long-term dental disease problems for Australian children (and adults) in years to come. UQ researchers have recommended that timely eligibility reminders and redesigning eligibility letters to look more like vouchers are what are needed – to get the message out.

CDBS service rebates set to increase in 2022-2023

As of 1 January 2022, CDBS will allocate $1,013 for eligible children to spend on dental services over a consecutive 2 year period, while on 1 January 2023 that amount will increase to $1,026. The CDBS covers a wide range of preventative and restorative treatments not including cosmetic dental. They include:

  • Regular dental exams/check-ups
  • Clean, polish & scale
  • Digital x-rays
  • Fillings
  • Fissure sealants
  • Tooth extractions
  • Root canal treatment

Leeming Dental welcomes CDBS-eligible families

The easiest way to find out if your family is eligible for the CDBS is to call the Medicare General Enquiries line on 132 011 or to access your Medicare my.gov.au account. Another quick indication of eligibility is if you have a current Medicare card. If your children are eligible, simply contact Leeming Dental to schedule a dental appointment. We can examine, assess and recommend suitable treatment options to treat their dental issues. All CDBS treatment is bulk billed so you won’t have to make any out-of-pocket payments. For all CDBS-related enquiries, call our helpful reception on 08 9310 3367 for assistance.

Why are healthy gums so important for a healthy heart

Why are healthy gums so important for a healthy heart

by | Mar 5, 2021 | Diagnosis, News and Research, Oral Links to General Health, Risk Factors, Signs and Symptoms

Having a healthy heart largely depends on your lifestyle and diet. If you eat a lot of unhealthy food, don’t exercise, smoke, drink too much alcohol and/or suffer from hypertension, your risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) is greatly increased. On the other hand, following a healthy diet (high in anti-oxidants) and exercising daily can reduce the risk factors for CVD. But how does oral health count as a risk factor?

The links between gum and heart disease

There is mounting clinical evidence that show gum disease (periodontitis) is strongly linked to a number of cardiovascular diseases, including:

  • heart disease (coronary artery disease)
  • heart attack (myocardial infarction)
  • cerebrovascular disease – affecting blood supply to the brain
  • stroke (cardioembolic and thrombotic)
  • peripheral artery (or vascular) disease
  • atrial fibrillation (heart arrhythmia)
  • heart failure

Research scientists have discovered that patients with chronic gum disease (periodontitis) have a higher risk for a number of medical conditions associated directly with CVD. These include:

  • endothelial dysfunction
  • increased risk of narrowing of the arteries (atherosclerosis)
  • inflammation

Why does gum disease affect cardiovascular health?

Gum disease or periodontitis affects cardiovascular health for a number of possible reasons, most of which involve the pathogenic bacteria (pathogens) associated with gum disease. These pathogens can migrate from the gums to other parts of the body via the body’s nervous system and blood stream. The presence of these pathogens, including the insidious Porphyromonas gingivalis, in your bloodstream can result in a larger build-up of calcium, fats and other materials on your arterial walls. This increase can fast track you towards atherosclerosis – and ultimately CVD. The same pathogens can also generate antibodies that directly affect your cardiovascular system, leading to the onset of CVD. Then there are the continual inflammation events and cytokine storms as a result of a chronic gum infection. These can have an adverse effect on your heart and general health as well.

What oral health practices can help prevent cardiovascular disease?

Maintaining good oral health is essential to lower your risk of heart-related health issues. Remember to brush your teeth twice a day. Use floss or interdental brushes to clean the spaces between your teeth. Last, but not least, visit your dentist twice a year for a check-up, so that any early signs of gum disease or periodontitis can be treated promptly.

Why are healthy gums so important for a healthy heart