Migraines And Gum Disease
Interesting news for those plagued by migraine comes from a study published in the Journal of the American Society for Microbiology. The study, published in 2016, found excessive bacteria in the mouth of those who had chronic migraines. The toxins released by these bacteria populations are known to trigger migraines. Previously, it was believed that certain food triggers caused migraines. It appears that the bacteria in periodontal disease plays a part.
Written By Dr. Jennifer Ebner
Another Astonishing Correlation Between Oral Health and Systemic Health
The toxin the researchers linked to migraines were the nitrates and nitrites byproducts released by the bacteria in the mouth that got into the bloodstream. Those nitrates and nitrites break down into chemicals that affect cardiac health and increase blood flow to the brain, resulting in a migraine headache. Past studies have shown that the byproduct of nitrates and nitrites may play a strong role in triggering migraines, cluster headaches, and tension headaches.
Overall wellness is a prominent goal in our dental practice at Biltmore Innovative Dentistry. The opportunity to educate our patients on ways we can help improve their overall health by committing to invest in their gum and tooth health and maintaining good home care is acted on at every visit. With increasing research that shows heart disease, Alzheimer's disease and dementia and even certain cancers are correlated with periodontal disease and poor oral health, it is imperative to Dr. Ebner and her staff that we offer not only education but a variety of services that can reduce gum disease and cavities and lead to better systemic health.
Specifically designed products to combat gum disease we offer are PerioRestore and PerioProtect. These custom-designed trays deliver a drug-free, specially formulated hydrogen peroxide gel into periodontal pockets at different depths depending on the user’s periodontal health measurements. Our review of the research and our own patients’ results have proven to us that bacteria in the deep pockets are dramatically reduced. The bacteria types may even be changed from more harmful strains to less harmful strains when used as directed. The result is improved periodontal health. It is only effective if excellent home care is maintained and regularly scheduled exams and cleanings are continued.
With research continuing to produce proof that healthy bodies are closely tied to healthy mouths, Dr. Ebner continues to pursue education and treatment options for her patients that are novel and effective ways to improve their oral health and systemic health. She likes being able to provide different avenues for people who prefer a more biologically compatible dental atmosphere and who want more say in their dental care.
If you're interested in pursuing nonsurgical and non-drug options to control gum disease, call Biltmore Innovative Dentistry and see what we can do for you. You will need a complete exam with a periodontal evaluation to determine if you are a candidate for this periodontal disease therapy.