If you’re a member of Costco warehouse and read their monthly magazine, The Costco Connection, you may have noticed the June 2011 issue urging readers to maintain good oral health as a cost-effective measure for preventing larger, life-threatening illnesses.
The article, “When Little Things Turn Big,” gave examples of a diabetic wound, a hip fracture, and finally, “Don’t Brush It Off.” While Ludwig’s Angina was mentioned in the oral health segment (brought on by poor oral health, which can cause a person’s airway to swell shut), it goes on to point out how gum disease has been linked to “adverse pregnancy outcomes and a higher risk of heart attack or stroke.”
The solution given is to brush, floss and see your dentist on a regular basis. These are simple steps that can save you hundreds (even thousands!) of dollars in treatment fees. And, based on what research shows us today, commitment to a good oral health regimen could even save your life!
