Tooth decay can lead to heart ailments, Pinoys warned

MANILA, Philippines - Most Filipinos may have taken oral health lightly but according to the Philippine Dental Association (PDA), it is actually a window to one’s health and well-being.

Incoming PDA president Dr. Fernando Fernandez said that oral health is not just about having a pretty smile because tooth decay may signal the development of heart ailments.

“Dental decay or dental caries can lead to heart attack, according to an article of the American Dental Association,” he said during Friday’s launching of the Sensodyne Repair and Protect toothpaste by GlaxoSmithKline.

Fernandez noted that the bacteria in the decayed tooth could be released into the blood stream and accumulate in the heart, eventually triggering a heart attack.

“The heart is the center of blood circulation. It pumps out blood from the heart to all organs and when you say all organs, that includes the oral,” he added.

He also warned that a person who has decaying tooth is prone to infection.

But despite the importance of oral health, he said 97 percent of Filipinos suffer from dental caries but only 22 percent of them go to dental clinics for treatment and repair.

Many also experience “dentine sensitivity” although they do not have decaying teeth.

Fernandez blamed this on “toothbrush abrasion” that damages the teeth’s enamel and exposes the nerves.

Because of this, he said a person experiences a jolt of pain when the teeth are exposed to heat, cold or sour food and drinks.

Fernandez attributed this to poverty and lack of awareness of parents about the value of oral health.

Meanwhile, the Department of Health (DOH) is planning to tap the PDA to increase awareness about oral health and to attend to those with dental problems in the country.

“We have limited capacity when it comes to tooth extraction, for instance, so we are thinking of coordinating with the PDA to come up with programs,” said Health Assistant Secretary Eric Tayag.

Tayag said the DOH may be providing the logistics needed in the program but the manpower of PDA would be utilized to run it.