By Vanessa Ybarra

Dangers of gum disease focus of Oral Health Month

Apr 28, 2017 | 10:00 AM

KAMLOOPS, B.C.  — With April Oral Health Month, dentists are spreading awareness of the importance of regular cleanings and oral care to prevent gum disease.

According to Kamloops Periodontist Dr. Preety Desai, gum disease can cause a number of health issues, including complications in pregnancy and an increase in heart and liver disease.

“Research has proven there are 1,000 bacteria in the mouth,” said Dr. Desai. “We now know bacteria is associated with disease. If you don’t remove that plaque, you’re actually eating and swallowing the bacteria, so kind of gruesome to think about but certainly if you’re eating and swallowing it the rest of your body is exposed to the bacteria.”

Dentists recommend brushing your teeth twice a day, especially before bed, and flossing regularly.

They also recommend having your teeth cleaned at least once a year.

SOUND OFF

SOUND OFF: Strengthening our wildfire training

19h ago

ARMCHAIR MAYOR

ROTHENBURGER: City caught flat-footed with sale of The Loop drop-in property

23h ago

The Tattle of Hastings

THE TATTLE OF HASTINGS: The Pearl of Schubert Drive

Apr 17, 2024

“Some people can get away with going longer because they have a better immune system,” added Dr. Desai. “Other people need to go every three or four months. The earlier you get identified and diagnosed with what kind of situation you have, the better. We definitely recommend once a year but certainly the patients I see at my office are much more frequent.”