This is a question we often get asked….and it is our professional responsibility to give an honest reply…if the answer is ‘yes’ , there is plenty of advice and treatment we can offer.

The cause of bad breath is most often due to a cavity or cavities or due to gum disease and trapped food or plaque not being removed. Sometimes however the cause can be a stomach or digestive disorder. But first a dental cause must be eliminated before our medical colleagues step in.  So regular check ups will ensure that a cavity is not overlooked, as often dental decay does not hurt so you may not be aware of the problem. Then regular visits to a good hygienist will make sure that the gums are healthy and that a good home maintenance routine is being followed. Using small brushes or dental tape to clean between the teeth is particularly good as this is where the toothbrush can’t always get.

Today Dr. George is attending an update postgraduate course with Dr. Mike Wise in Wimpole Street, London.

With other very experienced dentists from all over the UK, she is studying scientific papers and techniques relevant to restoring teeth and providing her patients with the best results possible.

Dr. Wise is a leading light in the world of Restorative dentistry, well known for teaching thousands of dentists at a postgraduate level over the last 25 years.

There have been recent articles and research papers to indicate and possible link between gum disease (periodontitis) and heart disease (cardiovascular disease).  It has been found that people with periodontal diseases are twice likely to get coronary artery disease as those without any gum disease.

Research has shown almost 92% of people who have CVD also have severe to moderate periodontitis (gum disease).

Some studies suggest that oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream and contribute to a thickening of the arterial walls or clot formation.  Any blockage of the arteries can lead to heart attacks.

Latest research suggest that gum and heart disease may actually share the same variation of a gene.  The researchers found that a locus on chromosome 9p21 is associated with both heart attack and gum disease.  Both disease share several risk factors including smoking, diabetes and obesity.  So people with periodontal disease should take care to reduce their risk factors and keep the disease from progressing.

It is very important that every individual has good up to date oral hygiene techniques to minimise the collection of plaque in the mouth.  Regular visits to your dentist, hygienist and in some cases a specialist periodontist is a good way in ensuring that conditions are picked up and managed, to reduce risk of future problems.

written by Dr Amit Dodia