Gum disease affects 85 per cent of all Singaporeans. "One of the early signs of gum disease is bleeding gums," says Dr Chung Kong Mun, President of the Society of Periodontology (Singapore).
Hidden dangers
Besides making your teeth fall out and your breath stink, gum disease has been linked to heart disease and stroke. Harvard scientists also found that those with gum disease had a 30 to 50 per cent greater risk of kidney, blood, or pancreatic cancer. One theory: The increased inflammation caused by an oral infection can spur cancer growth.
Spot the difference
There are two types of gum diseases: gingivitis is the superficial inflammation of gum tissue and periodontitis is a serious gum infection that destroys the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth. "Periodontitis is the leading cause of tooth extraction in adults aged 40 and above," says Dr Chung. To guard your gums, buy floss you'll use daily. A recent study in the Journal of Periodontology determined that all types of floss are equally effective.
Lead the MH life
We can sound like a broken record, but with good reason: researchers from Case Western University found that regular exercise and a healthful diet may cut your risk of gum disease by up to 29 per cent.
String them along
Dentists will tell you that brushing alone will not eliminate gum-damaging bacteria. "Flossing will help remove dental plaque located between teeth, often missed by brushing," says Dr Chung. A study in the Journal of Periodontology determined that all types of floss are equally effective, but only if you actually use the stuff.
Don't overdo it
Over-brushing can potentially traumatise gum tissue, which leads to recession of gums.
Get a copy of the August 2009 issue of Men's Health to read about the latest in men's health and lifestyle. Men's Health published by SPH Magazines is available at all newsstands now.
Mirza Malik is the Associate Editor of Men's Health magazine by SPH Magazines.
