Welcome to the dental office of Henry H. Chin, DDS, PLLC, where we are committed to improving the health and aesthetics of your smile. Located in Seattle, Washington, Dr. Henry H. Chin and his team of experienced professionals is committed to offering the best dental care possible for the entire family, in a compassionate, relaxed atmosphere.
Healthy Teeth, Healthy Body: Another reason to maintain regular checkups and good oral hygiene
Did you know that poor oral health can affect more than just your mouth. Increasing evidence by numerous research studies have shown a connection between oral health and general health, as well as overall well being. For example, Periodontal disease or disease of the gums and the supporting bone, has been linked to a number of systemic diseases such as:
Diabetes
Because diabetes reduces the body’s resistance to infection and slows the natural healing process, the gums are among the tissues likely to be affected. Due to this fact, periodontal diseases often appear to be more frequent and more severe among persons with diabetes. In addition, patients with inadequate blood sugar levels tend to lose more teeth than persons who have good control of their diabetes. That’s why good maintenance of blood sugar levels, a well-balanced diet that meets your needs, good oral care at home, regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations are important.
Cardiovascular disease (Heart attack and stroke)
New research has shown a progressive association between periodontitis and cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular disease refers to the hardening of the arteries and can result in heart attack or stroke. Periodontitis is believed to cause a low, but long-lasting, systemic inflammatory reaction, which in turn contributes to the development of atherosclerosis. Research conducted by the National Institute of Health (NIH) showed that bacteria specific to periodontal disease were found in higher concentrations in artherosclerotic arteries than normal arteries. Furthermore, another study also carried out by the NIH, determined that subjects with severe chronic gum disease were at risk for presence of carotid artery plaque (fatty deposits) deposit levels up to four times that of subjects without periodontal disease.
Pre-term/low birth weight babies
Periodontitis is a Gram-negative infection and it may have the potential to influence a woman's pregnancy. The same bacteria species that have been found in the periodontal pockets of pregnant women’s gums, have also been collected in the amniotic fluid of women with preterm births. Just like in the gums, this oral bacteria represents a significant source of inflammation and infection during pregnancy which may produce bacteraemia and pregnancy complications.