Are you aware of the link between gum disease and prostate health? Previous studies had found that oral health is linked to brain health, but recent research has also discovered the link between gum health and prostate health. This connection may not appear very obvious but you should not ignore it.

Studies now revealed that treatment of gum disease can help in reducing prostate inflammation. Gum disease is known to have a link to prostate inflammation called prostatitis. This is a disease that can cause inflammation of the gland that produces semen and consequently, it can make urination difficult.The study establishing the link was published in the journal called Dentistry and pressed on the link between the treatment of gum disease and reduction in symptoms of prostatitis.

Findings of the New Prostate Study

The study was conducted by the Case Western Reserve’s Department of Periodontics and it examined the effect of treatment of gum disease on prostate health. The researchers took 27 men aged 21 years and older who were suffering from prostatitis and also had moderate to severe gum disease. All of the men chosen had a needle biopsy within the previous year that confirmed inflammation of prostate gland in them. They also had blood tests which showed high levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in them. In addition, they were given the International-Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) test to determine the quality of their lives and any urination issues they might be facing.

During the course of the research, they were given treatment for their gum disease and no treatment for prostatitis. They underwent tests for four to eight weeks and showed significant improvement in their gum health.

Surprisingly, 21 out the 27 men showed improvement in prostate symptoms along with improvement in the gum health. Researchers asserted that if we treat gum disease, we can achieve a significant drop in levels of PSA. Participants with the highest levels of inflammation showed the most improvement while six of them showed no changes. After the course of gum treatment, they were again given IPSS test and improvement in the scores was noted.

The Bottom Line

Contrary to the popular belief that gum disease affects only the mouth, the research has proved that gum health is linked to the health of various body parts. Bad gum health can have an adverse effect on many other parts of the body and not just the mouth. Links have also been found between gum disease and rheumatoid arthritis, fetal deaths and cardiac health.

So, you may want to have a better check on your oral health. Never ignore any oral health issues like bleeding gums, swelling or even bad breath. Remember that prevention is always better than cure. Avoid gum disease and visit your nearest dentist in Goodyear AZ today!

Enamel is the covering on your teeth that protects them from decay. With time, this enamel undergoes wear and tear, which is normal. However, you may want to watch out for extra damage to this layer as unlike your bone, it cannot grow back and you can’t get it replaced either. So, the best you can do is take proper care of your teeth to avoid any kind of major damage to the tooth enamel.

Having strong tooth enamel is one of the vital steps towards good oral care. Although it doesn’t grow back and cannot be replaced, you can follow some simple steps for tooth enamel restoration.

Here is what you can do:

1. Cut the Intake of Sugary Foods and Drinks

You may be aware the bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar to make acids. These acids attack the tooth enamel and it starts wearing out. Products like candies stick to your teeth and cause damage. Similarly, soft drinks contain sugar and acids that aren’t good for your teeth enamel. Try to drink only the plain water when you feel thirsty.

2. Choose Foods that Protect Enamel

Milk and other dairy products are known to protect the tooth enamel as they contain calcium that is capable of countering the teeth-damaging acids. If you don’t eat dairy items, go for calcium-rich foods. You can always choose a low-fat or fat-free product to keep a check on your calories.

3. Use Gentle Strokes while Brushing and Avoid Overdoing It

Over-brushing wears out your enamel too easily. So, you must not brush too fast or hard. It is recommended that you use a brush with soft bristles and hold it at about a 45-degrees angle to your gums. Also, wait up to an hour at least before you brush your teeth after eating.

4. Include Fluoride

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), fluoride fights cavities naturally by making your teeth resistant to acids. It strengthens your enamel and helps in repairing your teeth from early tooth decay.

5. Improperly Chlorinated Pools are Bad

The pools that are not chlorinated properly can result in water becoming too acidic. When your teeth come in contact with this water, it can lead to teeth damage.

6. Keep a Check on Dry Mouth

Saliva helps a great deal in washing away the food and bacteria that can harm tooth enamel. However, if you have dry mouth, you are at a greater risk of your teeth being attacked by acids. Therefore, drink water more often to keep your mouth clean and preventing it from drying.

7. Avoid Grinding Your Teeth

This habit is both annoying and damaging. Grinding the upper and lower teeth together wears down the enamel over time. Visit your dentist if you have this habit.

8. Choose a Remineralizing Diet

There are a number of foods that can help in remineralizing your teeth, which further helps in the strengthening of your enamel. Eat a balanced diet to include whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and low-fat dairy items.

9. Regular Checkups are Vital

Lastly, pay a visit to your dentist at least once every six months even if your oral health seems fine. This can help your dentist identify early signs of any damage and treat it in time.

By making sure that you take care of all the above points, you can protect your tooth enamel from wearing out before time. This will not only maintain your perfect smile but will also help in protecting your oral health. Finally, keep your teeth and enamel intact by eating right and taking proper care.