智齿要拔掉？“老掉牙”不可避免？这些误区要注意

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the importance of oral health, particularly highlighting periodontal disease as a significant risk factor for various systemic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, which are often referred to as "silent killers" [1][3]. Group 1: Periodontal Disease and Systemic Health - Periodontal disease can double the incidence of fatal heart disease and increase the risk of myocardial infarction by 30% [1]. - Severe periodontal disease in pregnant women is associated with higher rates of preterm birth and low birth weight [3]. - Diabetic patients with severe periodontal disease have a sixfold higher probability of worsening blood sugar levels compared to those without periodontal issues [3]. Group 2: Prevention and Treatment of Periodontal Disease - Early identification of plaque and tartar accumulation is crucial to prevent the progression of periodontal disease [4]. - Common treatments for periodontal disease include scaling (cleaning), subgingival curettage, periodontal surgery, and tooth extraction, with antibiotics serving only as adjunctive therapy [6]. - Good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing twice daily for at least two minutes and using dental floss, are essential for prevention [7]. Group 3: Oral Cancer Awareness - Oral cancer incidence is rising in China, particularly among middle-aged men aged 40 to 60 [9]. - Common risk factors for oral cancer include smoking, alcohol consumption, and betel nut chewing [10][12]. - Symptoms such as persistent ulcers, bleeding, and unusual growths in the mouth should prompt immediate medical attention [12]. Group 4: Misconceptions in Dental Care - The belief that dental cleaning causes gum recession is incorrect; gum recession is often due to pre-existing inflammation [14][15]. - Not all wisdom teeth need to be extracted; only those that are problematic should be removed [16][18]. - The notion that losing teeth is an inevitable part of aging is misleading; periodontal disease is a primary cause of tooth loss, and maintaining dental health can significantly impact longevity [20].