Gum Disease Increases Risk of Death for Older Women

Data collected from over 57,000 women in their mid-50’s and older has led researchers to the conclusion that gum disease and tooth loss can increase the risk of early death. The recently released study, from the Journal of the American Heart Association, states that the risk of developing periodontal (gum) disease increases with age and this can lead to cardiovascular problems.

The study also contains some startling statistics:

– 47% of American adults over the age of 30 suffer from gum disease

– 70% of those over 65 suffer from the condition

– 19% of U.S. adults over the age of 65 had edentulism, a complete loss of the teeth caused by periodontitis

However, all is not doom and gloom and good periodontal care combined with regular visits to the dentist can avoid the development of gum disease. As professor of epidemiology, Michael J. LaMonte states in the report “older women may benefit from more intensive oral screening measures” which is at least one reason to smile.

The full article can be read here

http://www.healthline.com/health-news/older-women-with-gum-disease-risk-death.