Kiwanian Miranda Atkins, RDH, spoke to the Kiwanis Club on Tuesday, Oct. 28. Her program was titled “Gum Disease Can Kill More Than Your Smile.” Atkins has been a dental hygienist for 18 years and works for Dr. Bill Gaddis as well as a clinic in Monroe.

Atkins said oral health is closely tied to our overall health. She outlined two kinds of inflammation, acute and chronic, noting that inflammation breaks down collagen. In the mouth, inflammation presents as gingivitis and periodontal disease. Gingivitis is caused by plaque and can be influenced by smoking and hormonal changes; with good hygiene, it is reversible. Periodontal disease is chronic, affects the gums, causes bone loss that is irreversible, and must be maintained over time. Patients with periodontal disease may need hygiene visits more than twice a year.

She added that bacteria in the mouth can enter the bloodstream and cause serious problems. People with artificial joints, heart valves and stents usually need a prophylactic antibiotic before teeth cleaning or other dental work. This precaution can also apply to people with cardiovascular disease, diabetes or colorectal cancer.

Atkins recommended anti-inflammatory foods such as blueberries, cranberries and avocados, along with omega-3 sources including salmon and other fatty fish. She said fried foods, sugary snacks and omega-6–heavy items can promote inflammation.

Her bottom line was simple: people need to know the importance of taking good care of their teeth. Audience questions underscored that replacing teeth is expensive regardless of the method.