INFLAMMATION . . aka . . DRAGON BREATHHave you ever experienced inflammation ? More than likely, you have. Statistically, periodontitis (gum disease) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects 22% to 40% of the population with varying degrees of severity (Ref: Dept of Health and Human Services, Healthy People 2010). To understand inflammation, it is imperative to look at the diseases that it causes, like arthritis, asthma, allergies, diabetes and heart disease. According to Floyd H. Chilton, Ph.D, author of "Inflammation Nation", one in three American adults suffer from arthritis, 64 million people have heart disease in some form, 50 million Americans suffer with allergies, 20 million have asthma, and more than 18 million people have diabetes.
The wild fires of Inflammation are devastating and are increasing. Research on the Oral/Systemic link has suggested that periodontal (gum) disease may be considered as a "focal" infection. This means that an infection can start in one place and reside in another (ex: step on a rusty nail and your jaw locks up). The infection that is caused by bacterial toxins in the oral cavity are transported via the bloodstream throughout our bodies, many times residing in our vital organs.
There are some simple steps that can be taken to reduce this fire-breathing dragon. The "Big 3" has been with us for decades and still remain true . . Diet, Exercise and Rest. A vital addition is to incorporate a daily regimen of good oral health practices. When it comes to Oral Care, I've created my own "Big 3" . . . Floss, Brush and Irrigate !
Best to You, Steve
