Published: 2:00 AM – 01/25/12

While an old saying advises that “the eyes are the window to the soul,” modern dental research says the mouth provides an even better view of the body as a whole.

Some of the earliest signs of diabetes, cancer, immune disorders, hormone imbalances and drug issues show up in the gums, teeth and tongue long before a patient knows anything is wrong. and there’s growing evidence that oral health problems, particularly gum disease, raise the risk of some illnesses.

Some 20 million Americans – including 6 percent of children and 9 percent of adults – saw a dentist but not a doctor in 2008, according to a study in the December 2011 issue of American Journal of Public Health.

“It’s an opportunity to tell a patient, ‘You know, I’m concerned. I think you really need to see a primary-care provider,’ so you are moving in the direction of better health,” said the study’s lead researcher, Shiela Strauss, co-director of statistics and data management for new York University’s Colleges of Nursing and Dentistry.

A thorough mouth exam may also allow a dentist to see cancer, bulimia and certain drug addictions, such as methamphetamine use. In 32 years of practice, Dr. George Kivowitz, a restorative dentist with offices in Manhattan and Newtown, Pa., said he has spotted seven cases of cancer in 32 years of practice, as well as cases of bulimia, because of the telltale erosion of enamel on the back of the upper front teeth – as well as methamphetamine addiction.

“We call it ‘meth mouth,’” he said. “The outer surface of teeth just rots in a way that’s like nothing else.”

Dr. Thomas Littner of Cornerstone Dental in Middletown explains the concept called the “oral systemic connection.” the mouth is connected to the whole body, he says. “I review my patients’ medical history, medications … examine their teeth, gums, X-rays. … An oral cancer exam and neck palpation are important.”

A thorough exam “can display manifestations of systemic diseases,” says Dr. Bruce Weiner of the Smile Place in Middletown and Cornwall. some of those include measles, Rubella, diphtheria, AIDS, mononucleosis, blood diseases, vitamin deficiencies and metabolic disorders such as diabetes and other chronic diseases. “They may show up as lesions, sores, discoloration, coatings and yeast infections.”

Such findings are fueling a push for dentists to play a greater role in a patient’s health.

Littner explains that periodontal disease “involves pathogens (strong damage-causing bacteria) that form a coating around the teeth and inside the gum line, creating inflammation, infection and bone loss.”

It’s not something easily beaten, he adds. “Once you have periodontal disease, you’re never officially rid of it, you only manage it,” he says. he even suggests that patients see the dentist every three months because “every six months is just not enough to keep the levels of inflammation down.” For those fortunate enough to have dental insurance, Littner says that more frequent cleanings and exams may be covered if there is documented proof of necessity.

And, Weiner cautions, “Nothing is as good as prevention. Meticulous oral hygiene is best, coupled with professional measures and exams. a proper and balanced diet also helps maintain oral health.”

An estimated 6 million Americans have diabetes but don’t know it. and a 2009 study from new York University found that 93 percent of people who have periodontal disease are at risk for diabetes.

Inflammation from infected gums makes it difficult for people with diabetes to control their blood-sugar level, and high blood sugar accelerates tooth decay and gum disease, creating more inflammation.

And, says Weiner, “A large percentage of people with diabetes will develop periodontal disease. This is attributed to the fact that they are more susceptible to infections. Uncontrolled diabetics are particularly at risk.”

The good news? recent studies show that treating gum disease improves circulation, reduces inflammation and may even reduce the need for insulin in people with diabetes. “The less inflammation, the easier it is to control your sugar level, and when your sugar is under control, you may need less insulin,” says Littner.

While poor oral hygiene carries a risk for just about everyone, certain people are more susceptible than others. For pregnant women, periodontal disease “can create complications, namely early-term and low birth-weight babies,” says Littner.

There’s also growing evidence of the link between periodontal disease and cardiovascular problems. Inflammation in the gums raises C-reactive protein, thought to be a culprit in heart disease.

“They’ve found oral bacteria in the plaques that block arteries. It’s moved from a casual relationship to a risk factor,” says mark Wolff, chairman of the Department of Cariology and Comprehensive Care at NYU College of Dentistry.

That risk, says Weiner, happens because “the mouth has very high concentrations of bacteria. Insult, injury and even brushing introduce bacteria into the usually sterile bloodstream. This creates a systemic inflammatory response that has been shown to play a role in heart disease, and is also the theory behind bacterial pneumonia.”

Mouth bacteria traveling through the bloodstream can cause problems elsewhere, which is why people contemplating elective surgery are advised to have necessary dental work performed beforehand. the American Heart Association, American Medical Association and American Orthopedic Association all urge people who have had full-joint replacement to take an antibiotic before any dental visit — for the rest of their lives. It reduces the risk of post-surgical infections.

Dentists also need up-to-date information on their patients’ medications, supplements and over-the-counter drugs. Blood thinners can create excess bleeding, and osteoporosis drugs called bisphosphonates can severely weaken jaw bones. Calcium-channel blockers, drugs for high blood pressure and some anti-inflammatory drugs can cause gum ulcerations.

“Medications are a tough topic and challenge because they generally cause dry mouth,” says Littner. “If you bump your brush on the gum, cheek or lip, or your denture is real dry and rubs … it can cause a sore or ulcer. Dry mouth also increases the risk of dental decay.” he advises discussing side effects with your doctor to see if an alternative medication is available, and also suggests products to reduce dry mouth such as nonalcoholic fluoride rinses and xylitol — an ingredient in many sugarless gums — which is actually good for your teeth. Of course, there’s always water.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that dentists offer HIV testing because some of the first symptoms appear in the mouth. Weiner says, “HIV is sometimes diagnosed after finding Karposi’s sarcoma, which can turn up as a lesion in the mouth or skin. It’s confirmed by biopsy and a test for HIV if no history is indicated.”

A gleaming white smile is a sign of a healthy mouth, right? not necessarily. In fact, many dentists worry that people who whiten their teeth, and even people who have no cavities, can still be harboring tooth decay and serious gum disease. “Pearly whites are just that,” says Weiner. “It’s what’s underneath that counts.”

In fact, using whitening products more often than recommended can erode some of the enamel and cause teeth to appear translucent. “A lot of the whitening products are harsh,” says Littner. “If someone brushes with a hard toothbrush and brushes real hard and fast, it’s possible to get some enamel erosion. the abrasives in the pastes can also contribute to this problem.”

Freelance writer Carol Montana contributed to this story.

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Gum disease can begin for anyone at any age. it is more common, but adults over 35 years old. the disease can be mild or severe. it depends upon the stage. everyone should know what gum disease is. in this way, they will understand what the causes and know-how to prevent it.

Description of Gum Disease

Teeth are accordingly attached in your mouth through the gums and bone. the point of attachment is where the gums and teeth connect. Gum disease (or periodontal disease) weakens and breaks this point of attachment. when the point of detachment separates gum and teeth, the tooth first becomes loose. it then falls out.

At this point, the kind or stage of gum diseases is called periodontitis. This classifies from the earlier stage gingivitis. Gingivitis is a less hazardous form of gum disease. Characteristics of this dental problem include inflammation, swelling and discolored gums. the symptoms of later gingivitis can include constant bad breath and trench mouth.

If the bacteria will start spreading in your mouth, this will cause gum disease. Bad bacteria will develop, feeding bits of food lodged in several holes in the mouth. Bacteria forms or is a part of plaque. This sticky white material starts to form on your gums and teeth. Plaque forms every day. if you, or your dentist, do not remove it, it becomes tartar or calculus.

It’s easier to remove plaque than tartar. the annual or 6-month visit to the dentist can manage this. So, too can a trip to a dental hygienist. Tartar is a harder substance and more hard to remove. Tartar is also rougher in texture. it is the ideal place for more plaque to gather and calcify into more tartar. if periodontal disease attains this stage periodontitis, it becomes a more difficult condition to handle.

Oral Hygiene Remedy a Way to Prevent Gum Disease

A life without gum disease is can be achieve. the best remedy for gum disease is prevention. do not treat the problem or its symptoms, but stop it. You can easily avoid the gum disease by embracing a proper method of oral hygiene care. Your dentist can guide you in choosing the right products. the market is also filled of both commercial and natural products such as the alterable OraMD that acts as both toothpaste and a mouthwash.

The following are basic program of care oral health:

• Brush your teeth every after meal and just before bedtime.
• Flossing
• Rinsing using a non-alcoholic mouthwash
• Visit your dentist every 6-months or a year for a checkup and/cleaning.

It is important that everyone understands gum disease. it is vital to know the main cause, kinds and symptoms. You should always be aware of any remedies or preventions. And most importantly, you need to know how to avoid it. This is very easy to do. Embrace a positive oral hygiene program. if you brush, rinse and floss every day, your smile should last a lifetime.

This article is copyright © 2011 of jewishmainstreet.com

ore gums are a very common health complaint in the United States. In fact, they have become so widely accepted in society that many people view this condition as normal. Sore gums are not normal! They are usually caused by a buildup of bacteria in the mouth. if the bacteria in the mouth are not removed on a daily basis, they form plaque. Plaque quickly turns into tartar, which means danger for the gum tissue.

How It All HappensWhat happens when bacteria are allowed to grow in the mouth unchecked? In people who have not made good oral care a habit, these bacteria are everywhere in the mouth, including in the saliva. if daily tooth brushing and flossing are not being done, food particles are added to this mix. a substance called plaque forms. Plaque settles on and between the teeth and gums. Plaque gets hard and changes into tartar in less than two days. It is at this point that the symptoms of gum disease began to make themselves seen.

Symptoms of Sore GumsThe symptoms of sore gums and gum disease include, but are not limited to:

• Red, swollen, tender gums
• Gums that bleed when you brush your teeth
• Gums that bleed after you brush your teeth
• Bad breath
• A bad taste in the mouth
• Pockets forming in the gum tissue beneath the teeth
• Gums that receding
• Teeth that are loose
• Teeth that have shifted in the mouth

Improving Sore Gum SymptomsThe symptoms of sore gums can be much improved or in some case completely eradicated when a program of good oral care and cleaning with the correct type of product. Have you read the labels on the commercial products you are using right now? All of those long and strange sounding names represent toxins, chemicals, and detergents. you cannot believe the advertisements for these products. They harm the teeth and gums rather than helping them. They are the last thing you want to use to care for and soothe your sore gums.

Finding the right Oral Care ProductWhat you need to help you when you have symptoms of sore gums is an all-natural product that will soothe your gums instead of irritating them. a product like OraMD would be ideal for your needs. OraMD is a liquid formulated of spearmint, almond, and peppermint oils. These oils have proven to be beneficial to sore gums and gum disease. OraMD is a 100% natural liquid toothpaste, mouthwash, and breath freshener. the 4 Step OraMD Oral Hygiene program is dentist approved and recommended, and is just the thing for your sore gum problem.

This food was so powerful that in the Indian Sub- Continental & Hawaiian island only the Raja (the kings) could eat it and they would share the Sakthi – mana (energy) with hundreds of people. kills viruses that cause influenza, herpes, measles, hepatitis C, SARS, AIDS, and other illnesses. · kills bacteria that cause ulcers, throat infections, urinary tract infections, gum disease and cavities, pneumonia, and gonorrhea, and other diseases. · kills fungi and yeasts that cause candidiasis, ringworm, athlete’s foot, thrush, diaper rash, and other infections. · Expels or kills tapeworms, lice, giardia, and other parasites. · provides a nutritional source of quick energy. · Boosts energy and endurance, enhancing physical and athletic performance. · Improves digestion and absorption of other nutrients including vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. · Improves insulin secretion and utilization of blood glucose. · Relieves stress on pancreas and enzyme systems of the body. · Reduces symptoms associated with pancreatitis. · Helps relieve symptoms and reduce health risks associated with diabetes. · Reduces problems associated with malabsorption syndrome and cystic fibrosis. · Improves calcium and magnesium absorption and supports the development of strong bones and teeth. · Helps protect against osteoporosis. · Helps relieve symptoms associated with gallbladder disease. · Relieves symptoms associated with Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and stomach ulcers. · Improves digestion …Video Rating: 0 / 5

I noticed that I always get an increase in my asthma/breathing symptoms behind the wheel, especially on the highway. is this because of increased stress, or am I also breathing in toxins on the roads which are triggering it?

Hi Luke

Here is an unusual but very effective method to heal many issues (especially skin).
 
INTRODUCTION TO OIL PULLING ("OP")
REPORTED CURES WITH OIL PULLING:

Mouth & Gum Disease; Stiff Joints; Allergies; Asthma; Acne, High Blood Sugar; Constipation; Migraines; Bronchitis; Eczema; Heart, Kidney, Lung Diseases; Leukemia; Arthritis; Meningitis; Insomnia; Menopause (hormonal issues); Cancer; AIDS; Chronic Infections; Varicose Veins; High Blood Pressure; Diabetes; Polio; Cracked Heels,.

Here's are a few paragraphs from Bharat Savur's article on The Hindu Business Online

…"when Dr Karsch examined the swished milk-white oil under a microscope with 600 magnification, he saw live organisms swimming in it. It's poisonous, so never swallow it, he warns. These poisons are bacteria-embryos, which, if not eliminated, cause diseases. Apparently, Dr Karsch cured his own chronic blood disease and 15-year-old arthritis.

The first sign of improvement is in the teeth-they become firm and white, he says. Other healing indications: fresh, relaxed feeling on waking up, disappearing dark pouches below the eyes, anew appetite and energy, better memory and deep sleep.

Dr Karsch swears by the mouth oil-wash for anything from organ-disorders, skin-diseases, menstrual problems, paralysis to every ache and it is in the human anatomy. You can swish even when you have fever, he says, adding, it takes anything from two days to a year to cure a disease.

And if these claims sound exaggerated, he told a conference of Ukrainian cancer specialists, try out the process yourself.

Interestingly, Ayurveda advises oil swishing "to purify the taste-buds and the entire system", as explained by Dr Deepak Chopra in Perfect Health.

According to this life science, the tongue is mapped by organ-locations — that is, each section of the tongue is connected to the kidneys, lungs, spleen, liver, heart, pancreas, small intestines, stomach, colon, and spine.
Thus, an oil-mouth-massage soothes and stimulates the key meridians where taste meets organ. Simultaneously, as in any skin-massage, the inner skin and lining of the mouth, palate and tongue become warm and supple and the lubrication prevents dryness (the vatic effect).
In modern dietetics too, dryness is discussed.

For example, lack of Vitamin a (retinal) causes the outer lining of the eyeball to dry and wrinkle, and affects vision.
And as any dietician would tell you, all oils contain 960 micrograms of vitamin a per 10 gm (the recommended daily allowance of vitamin a per adult is 600 micrograms). So, it's possible that oil gargling helps in reaching the required retinal to the eyeballs and keeps them elastic and smooth.
Likewise, the Ayurvedic `purification of taste-buds' also has its equivalent in dietetics as `antioxidants'. Oxidation literally means `the putrefaction of body-tissues'.

And oil-soluble vitamins, a, C, D, and E are antioxidants that protect and prevent the decaying process and help maintain the integral functioning of cell membranes. That's why many people are ingesting vitamin E pills to stem `aging' (oxidation). "
 
Here is the link to learn more about OP

earthclinic.com/Remedies/oil_…

Best of health to you