Biography
Biography: Arup Ratan Choudhury
Abstract
The human mouth is home to millions of microorganisms, most of them harmless. Under certain conditions, however, some can cause oral infections such as tooth decay or gum disease. Oral bacteria may also enter the bloodstream if normal protective barriers in the mouth are breached. This can happen as a result of dental treatment or even tooth brushing and flossing. Recent studies point to associations between oral infections, primarily gum infections and diabetes; heart disease; stroke; and preterm, low-weight births. Research is underway to determine if the associations are causal or coincidental. Gum infections have been called "the sixth complication of diabetes," because people with diabetes are more likely to have periodontal disease. Researchers are exploring a possible two-way connection between the conditions to see if treating gum disease improves diabetic control. Recent studies point to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke in people with gum infections; the risk increases with the severity of the oral infection by integrating oral health into strategies for promoting general health and by assessing oral needs in sociodental ways, health planners can greatly enhance both general and oral health. The key concept underlying future oral health strategies is integration with this approach, a major benefit being the focus on improving health conditions in general for the whole population and for groups at high risk, thereby reducing social inequities.