Can Your Periodontist Help Defend Against Metabolic Syndrome

You may not think of metabolic syndrome and dentistry as being related, but, surprisingly, dentists can help those who do suffer from this condition. Metabolic syndrome, which affects 40% of Americans 40 years or older, is a group of conditions that are linked to insulin resistance. These include things such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, fatty liver disease, and kidney disease. If left untreated, these patients have a larger risk of sleep apnea, stroke, heart attacks and more. 

So, what can your periodontist do to fight metabolic syndrome?

Your dentist can spot any signs of periodontal disease. This disease is an early warning sign of metabolic syndrome. If this is the case, the dentist can help treat the disease and lower your risk for kidney and heart disease. A study found that untreated periodontal disease can increase death from heart or kidney disease by 3 times as much. 

If you are someone who is already suffering from metabolic syndrome, your dentist can still offer aid. Sleep apnea is an issue often associated with metabolic disorders. Dentists can help with sleep apnea by offering mouthguards that help you breathe regularly throughout the night. Another aid offered by your dentist is a normal, routine teeth cleaning. By getting your teeth cleaned professionally every few months, your dentist is able to clean hard to reach places and scrub any plaque away. This will ensure that buildup does not become an issue.

Good overall health is linked to good oral health, so just going to routine dental appointments and practicing good oral care can help improve your overall health. 

Need a periodontist in Jackson, MS?

The team at Periodontal Associates of Jackson, in Jackson, MS, can help improve your oral health and, as we learned above, your general health as well. Be sure to schedule an appointment with us today!