Periodontal therapy is not just the key to health of your mouth, but to your body as a whole. Recent studies have found that oral health is an important factor in the overall health of your body. What’s even more interesting is that one particular study found that periodontal therapy actually helped ease some of the negative effects of seemingly non-related conditions. Let’s take a look at the results.
Study of Periodontal Therapy in Patients with Varying Conditions
The study looked at medical costs and hospitalization rates for people with type 2 diabetes, coronary artery disease, cerebral vascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and pregnancy. The intent of the study was to see the impact of periodontal therapy on some of the adverse effects caused by these conditions. Shockingly, the study found that:
- Pregnant women undergoing periodontal therapy spent 74% less in medical costs, as compared to those who weren’t undergoing therapy.
- Medical costs were 40% lower for patients with type 2 diabetes and cerebral vascular disease.
- Patients with coronary artery disease saw an 11% reduction in medical costs from those who had untreated periodontal therapy.
- For those undergoing periodontal therapy, the amount of hospitalizations was lower for all conditions except rheumatoid arthritis.
Scientists have thought for some time that the health of your mouth is essential to the health of the rest of your body. While these findings do not prove that periodontal therapy is beneficial to other types of conditions, they certainly suggest it. Periodontal therapy is inexpensive and has minimal risk for complications. Simply taking care of your teeth, getting regular cleanings, and getting any other treatment needed can increase your overall health.
For more information on this study or to schedule an appointment, give us a call today at 407-907-6512.