Nutritional Counseling
Dental health is critical to overall (systemic) health and research shows that dental problems such as periodontal disease can lead to several other health problems such as stroke, premature birth, organ transplant failures, diabetes and even death. There is a correlation between high inflammatory bacterial levels in oral tissue and the risk for hearth disease, stroke, Type II diabetes, and most other chronic inflammatory diseases of aging. 75% of Americans are affected by some degree of gingivitis and periodontitis from bacterial build up. Bacteria from inflamed gums easily enter the bloodstream leading to systemic inflammation and disease. Chronic inflammation that begins in the mouth and enters the blood stream has been linked to cancer, heart disease, stroke, and type II diabetes. This concept has been well documented at major research institutions and universities.
The evidence for this connection is the species of bacteria that causes periodontitis that have been found in the atherosclerotic plaque in the arteries of the heart.
People with periodontitis have elevated levels of C reactive protein, an inflammatory marker associated with oxidative damage that is the major cause of atherosclerotic heart diseases and stroke. In recent years, studies have shown that high serum levels of antioxidants such as vitamin C, E, beta-carotene, and CoQ10 ward off bacteria and reduce inflammation. Together with citrus bioflavonoids, these compounds can strengthen blood vessels, gum tissue and limit or reverse some cases of periodontal disease. A well-planned wellness and nutrition program is crucial to maintaining optimal general and dental health.
Although poor nutrition does not directly cause periodontal disease, many researchers believe that disease progresses faster and is more severe in patients whose diets lack the necessary nutrients. Periodontal disease affects the supporting tissues of the teeth and is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
Poor nutrition affects the entire immune system, thereby increasing susceptibility to many disorders. Individuals with lowered immune systems have been shown to be at higher risk for periodontal disease. Additionally, today's research shows a link between oral health and systemic conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
