What disease are the following facts referring to?
- _______ disease is the 6th leading cause of death in the United States and the 5th leading cause of death for those ages 65 and older.
- _______ is the only cause of death among the top 10 in America without a way to prevent, cure, or even slow its progression.
- Deaths from _______ increased 66 percent between 2000 and 2008, while deaths from other major diseases, including the number one cause of death (heart disease), decreased.
- Today, 5.4 million Americans are living with _______ disease, and this number is rising quickly.
- Another American develops _______ disease every 69 seconds. In 2050, an American will develop the disease every 33 seconds.
- 4 percent of the general population will be admitted to a nursing home by age 80. For people with _______, 75 percent will be admitted to a nursing home by age 80.
Any guesses as to which disease we’re talking about?
If you guessed Alzheimer’s, then you’re correct. Today, September 21, is World Alzheimer’s Day, and Dr. Corbet Locke, a dentist in Waco, Texas, wants to do his part to spread the word about this debilitating disease.
As with many serious health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and stroke, Alzheimer’s disease has been directly linked to the health of your teeth and gums- specifically periodontal (gum) disease.
Gum disease is a serious oral health problem, but you can protect yourself by having regular, bi-annual dental checkups and cleanings and taking good care of your smile between appointments. Although there is no way to prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s, you can decrease your chances of developing it as a result of your oral health.
For more information about gum disease, or if you experience bleeding, swollen, or tender gums, call Dr. Locke‘s dental office at (254) 776-4888 to reserve an appointment.