 | Back | |||
| ||||
 |
Less Healthy Mouths Seen in People on Dialysis
by Nancy Volkers INTELIHEALTH - People with serious kidney problems may have poorer oral health, say Turkish researchers. They compared healthy people to people on two types of dialysis: peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis. Dialysis uses a machine to clean a person's blood. It is used in people with kidney problems. People on both types of dialysis had more plaque and tartar on their teeth, compared with healthy people. People on hemodialysis also were more likely to have bleeding gums. This is a sign of gingivitis, or early gum disease. The study included 177 people. Their average age was about 45. Peritoneal dialysis cleans the blood by washing a special fluid through a person's abdomen, and then back out again. Hemodialysis cleans the blood by running it through a special machine and back into the person. Several studies published over the past year have suggested that people on any type of dialysis have more dental problems. However, other studies have not found this link. The authors say it is important that people on dialysis take good care of their teeth. This includes brushing and flossing at home, as well as regular visits to a dentist. The current study appears in the March issue of the journal Oral Diseases. |
|
| Last updated March 26, 2008 |
© 2002-2008 Aetna, Inc. All rights reserved. All information is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt medical care for any specific health issues and consult your physician before starting a new fitness regimen. Use of this online service is subject to the disclaimer and the terms and conditions. External website links provided on this site are meant for convenience and for informational purposes only; they do not constitute an endorsement. These external links open in a different window.