Periodontal Therapy: Improved Health, Increased Savings

Since you were a child, you’ve heard the advice: brush and floss your teeth every day. But this is more than just a practical tip to keep your mouth fresh and teeth pearly white. Maintaining a good oral health routine is important not just for your teeth, but for your overall body.

Dental Health Affects Overall Health

Philadelphia dentist Dr. Pamela G. Doray spends a considerable amount of time with her patients educating them about how dental health affects overall health. Gum disease is unfortunately one of the most common chronic diseases in American adults. What’s worse is that periodontitis, the most severe form of gum disease, is linked to major health risks including premature birth, low birth weight, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and stroke to name a few.

The good news is that treating gum disease can lead to a significant improvement in your total health and a reduction in medical costs.

Treating Gum Disease Improves Health, Saves Money

United Concordia is a dental insurance company with a 40 year history that insures more than 1.7 million members. Between 2007 and 2009, United Concordia conducted a study to determine if periodontal treatment had an impact on medical costs for individuals who were pregnant or diagnosed with chronic medical conditions such as heart disease, stroke or diabetes.

The study compared patients with chronic medical conditions (or who were pregnant) broken into two groups: those who received periodontal treatment and those who did not. The results were profound. Not only were patients who received periodontal therapy more likely to improve their health, but they also saw a significant savings in medical care costs.

Infographic: Treating Gum Disease Equals Savings from United Concordia Dental

How Can You Improve Your Health?

Whether you suffer from a chronic medical condition, are pregnant or simply want to maintain optimal health, make sure that your dentist is a part of your healthcare team. Visiting the dentist at least two times each year and talking about any health conditions is the one of the best ways to prevent gum disease and maintain top oral health.

When you visit Dr. Doray’s Philadelphia dental office, you will receive a comprehensive evaluation and periodontal screening. We’ll discuss your medical history and determine if you are at risk for gum disease. If you are showing signs of gum disease, Dr. Doray will create a personalized periodontal treatment plan to bring your gums back to health.

In between visits, remember to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once a day. Eat healthy foods like fresh fruits and vegetables and limit sugary snacks and sodas. Drinking water is an important part of a healthy diet and critical to a healthy mouth. Water helps to wash away food and bacteria and increases saliva production which neutralizes acids and controls microbial growth.