A growing body of research has linked gum disease to a variety of healthproblems that affect women.
Because gum disease is a bacterial infection, itcan enter the bloodstream and may be a factor in causing other healthcomplications.
Diabetes: Women with diabetes are more likely to have gum infections and this makes it difficult to control the blood sugar levels.
Heart diseases: Women with gum infections are more at risk for heart disease and at twice the risk for fatal heart attacks.
Stroke: Studies have found a relationship between oral infections and a risk for stroke
Respiratory diseases: Bacteria in the oral cavity can travel down to the lungs and cause infections, especially in those with gum infections.
Women have special oralhealth requirements during the unique phases in their lives. Changes in femalehormone levels during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy and menopause exaggeratethe way gums react to plaque. So at these times, women need to be especiallythorough when brushing and flossing every day in order to prevent gum disease.
Because gum disease is usuallypainless, many women may not even realize they have it until it reaches anadvanced state. Your best defense is to brush and floss daily and see yourdentist regularly.
This Women’s Day take the time to introspect. Are you making timefor your health? Simple things like brushing properly and routine dentalcheck-ups can save you from a lifetime of health concerns.
Dr. ShrutiShanbhag practices at Toothworks- Total Dental Solutions, Prabhadevi, Mumbai.She is passionate about raising awareness of oral health concerns in women,something that has been grossly neglected in India. For more information visithttps://www.facebook.com/toothworksindia