Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris

Recent study found link between gum disease and hypertension

On March 2021, Dr. Francesco D’Aiuto, head of the periodontology unit at University College London Eastman Dental Institute, published a study outlining the association between severe gum disease and high blood pressure. According to these findings, a person experiencing an advanced stage of gum disease is significantly more likely to develop high blood pressure.

Dr. D’Aiuto explained that “evidence indicates that periodontal bacteria cause damage to the gums and also trigger inflammatory responses that can impact the development of systemic diseases including high blood pressure.”

The study analyzed data from 250 adults with severe periodontitis and 250 adults without gum disease. All participants were otherwise healthy. The findings revealed that participants with gum disease were twice as likely to have high systolic blood pressure (140 mm Hg or more) than those with healthy gums (14% vs. 7%, respectively). The results suggest that 50% of adults could have undetected high blood pressure due to gum disease and consequently many individuals may be unaware they are at increased risk of heart-related problems.

The author noted that “oral health strategies such as brushing teeth twice daily are proven very effective in managing and preventing the most common oral conditions, and our study’s results indicate they can also be a powerful and affordable tool to help prevent hypertension.”

Please contact the practice if you have any questions regarding your health condition.

Association between gum disease and severity of COVID‐19 infection in Glen Iris

A recent study published in February 2021 (DOI link) found that gum disease or periodontitis is linked to the severity of Covid-19 complications.

According to the authors,  this research explored the role of gum disease as an exacerbating factor in severe Covid-19 outcomes. Since systemic inflammation is also a key feature of periodontitis, the connection between periodontitis and COVID‐19 complications has been investigated.

Periodontitis is a chronic, non‐resolving gingival inflammation causing bone loss and tooth detachment. It has been linked to other medical conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, renal disease, pneumonia, and cancer.

The study analyzed 568 Covid-19 patients. Out of those, 258 had periodontitis. Among them, 33 experienced Covid-19 complications, whereas only 7 of the 310 patients without periodontitis had such complications. The study concluded that patients with moderate-to-severe periodontitis had a significantly higher risk of COVID‐19 complications compared to those with mild or no periodontitis. Possible reasons for this connection include periodontal pockets acting as viral reservoirs and the aspiration of periodontal bacteria worsening COVID‐19 virulence.

Gum disease is one of the most common chronic diseases worldwide but remains preventable and treatable. Maintaining good oral health, especially healthy gums, can significantly reduce the risk of serious medical conditions, including coronavirus complications. Signs of gum disease include bleeding during brushing or eating and bad breath. Since symptoms often aren’t painful, many ignore them, increasing the risk of tooth loss and medical complications.

To prevent gum disease, brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, clean gently along the gum-line, and floss regularly. Regular dental visits are essential for assessing oral health and receiving professional cleaning. For more information or concerns about gum disease, please contact our practice to schedule an appointment.

What Is Oral Health? The New Global Definition, Explained by Glen Iris Dentist

The FDI World Dental Federation unveiled a new, comprehensive definition of ‘oral health’ at the Annual World Dental Congress in Poznan, Poland. This updated definition has been adopted by over 200 national dental associations, including those in Australia, and marks a major milestone for dental health globally and here in Glen Iris.

What Is the New Definition of Oral Health?

FDI now defines oral health as:

  • A multi-faceted concept including the ability to speak, smile, smell, taste, touch, chew, swallow, and express emotions with confidence—free from pain, discomfort, or disease in the mouth, jaw, or face.

  • A fundamental component of overall health and well-being, both physical and mental, that’s shaped by attitudes and values of individuals and communities.

  • Reflective of physiological, social, and psychological factors that are essential to quality of life.

  • Influenced by an individual’s changing circumstances, experiences, perceptions, and adaptability through life.

Professor David Williams, Co-Chair of the FDI Vision 2020 Think Tank, explained, “Oral health is embedded within the wider framework of overall health—raising awareness for all its dimensions.”

Why Does This Matter for Glen Iris Families?

The FDI’s new definition, discussed at length with help from the Australian Dental Association, pushes for a more holistic approach to oral health—including local clinics and families in Glen Iris. It means your dentist isn’t just concerned with cavities or cleanings, but with helping you speak, eat, smile, and interact confidently and pain-free each day.

Standardized measurement tools, coming from this definition, will soon help dental practices in Glen Iris to track, compare, and improve oral health more effectively for individuals and the community.

Find Out More

If you’re in Glen Iris and want to know how this new approach to oral health impacts your care, ask your local dentist or contact our team for more information and wellness resources.

Habits That Can Damage Your Teeth: What to Avoid and Better Alternatives in Glen Iris

Some everyday habits may seem harmless but can actually harm your teeth in the long run. Here are some common examples and tips for protecting your smile:

Using Your Teeth as Tools
Opening packages or ripping tags with your teeth may seem convenient but puts you at risk for cracked or broken teeth. Instead, keep a small multi-tool or scissors handy to save your teeth for smiling—not cutting!

Nail Biting
Biting your nails can cause painful nail infections and may even damage your teeth. Like using your teeth as tools, this habit increases the risk of chips and cracks. Break the habit by getting a manicure or covering fingernails with bandages.

Chewing Ice
Ice is very hard and can put stress on your teeth, causing cracks, chips, or even fracturing existing fillings or crowns. It may also leave your jaw muscles sore. If you crave something chewy and refreshing, opt for sugar-free gum instead.

Using Toothpicks Incorrectly
Frequent or aggressive use of round toothpicks can damage gums and teeth. Toothpicks can become wedged between your teeth and gums, causing irritation or even injury. If you need to remove food particles, use floss or interdental brushes. If you prefer toothpicks, choose anatomically shaped ones and use them gently.

Protect Your Smile!
By kicking these damaging habits, you can maintain strong, healthy teeth for life. If you have questions about tooth health or need advice on better oral habits, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with Dr. Daniel Kaufman.

Chronic Gum Inflammation and Your Health: Glen Iris Guide to Diet, Risks, and Better Habits

Chronic gum inflammation can linger for months or even years—often unnoticed because it usually doesn’t cause pain. Meanwhile, bacteria and toxins from inflamed gums may increase your risk of serious health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and even cancer.

Improving your diet and lifestyle in Glen Iris can help reduce chronic inflammation and protect your well-being.

Which Foods Can Trigger Inflammation?

Two common groups in today’s diet are primary culprits: sugar and fat.

  • Sugar:
    Added to many processed foods, refined grains, some dairy, grain-fed meats, and farmed fish. The body struggles to process excess sugar, especially fructose. Overconsumption can cause classic metabolic syndrome symptoms—weight gain, obesity, lowered HDL, raised LDL, high blood sugar, increased diabetes risk, and high blood pressure.

  • Fat:
    A diet high in saturated fat and low in unsaturated fat increases risks of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and triggers inflammatory mediators. Balancing your unsaturated (healthy) and saturated (less healthy) fats is key for reducing inflammation.

Anti-Inflammatory Diet: What to Eat for Healthier Gums

For Glen Iris families, focus on:

  • More unsaturated fats (like olive oil, fish oil, nuts)

  • Less processed sugar

  • Plenty of vegetables, whole beans, and healthy proteins

Lifestyle Changes That Lower Inflammation

  • Stop smoking

  • Manage stress

  • Maintain a healthy weight

  • Stay active (avoid sedentary routines)

These steps help lower free radicals, C-reactive protein, and cortisol, all of which fuel chronic inflammation.

If you’re in Glen Iris and want advice on gum health, contact our dental team or book your appointment to find personalized solutions for gum problems.