Research from across the Atlantic shows more Americans may have gum disease than previously thought and dental experts suggest this could also be the case in the UK. If you are worried about your dental care compare dental insurance online to cover you for extra procedures.
The prevalence of periodontal disease in the US may have been underestimated by 5 percent, highlighting the need to establish possible links between gum disease and other systemic links such as heart disease, strokes, diabetes, and pre-term births.
"The study shows that gum disease is a bigger problem than we previously thought and although this news comes from across the Atlantic it could well apply to us here in the UK as well," said Dr Nigel Carter, British Dental Health Foundation's chief executive.
"It all means that the relationship between gum disease and other related illnesses now becomes even more critical, in light of these new findings."
The research, conducted as part of a National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, involved a full-mouth and comprehensive periodontal examination with over 45 American adults being tested.
Periodontal disease is an inflammation of the tissues supporting the teeth, and in early stages the gums can become red and swollen and often bleed, however in later stages the disease is largely symptomless.
If this is left untreated tooth loss can result and there is also the risk that other systems in the body may become infected.
Dr Carter emphasised the necessity of regular visits to the dentist and to keep up good dental care routines. He said to prevent and treat gum disease you need to remove the plaque on your teeth every day by brushing for two minutes twice a day including flossing.
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Having comprehensive dental insurance is often left to the bottom of the pile of things to do when it comes to insurance however this article has highlighted the importance of dental hygiene for overall health. The importance of having dental cover is considerable as routines can be costly or non-existent on the NHS.