CHICAGO – June 20, 2002 – A case report published in the June issue
of the Journal of Periodontology provides another reason why
abnormalities in the mouth such as swollen or bleeding gums and oral
sores should be taken seriously.
"We have been hearing more about various health concerns lately, but
one important area that is often overlooked is the mouth," said Kenneth Bueltmann, D.D.S.,
president of the American Academy of Periodontology. "It is important
for patients to have regular oral exams to not only maintain oral
health, but to identify possible risks for serious medical conditions."
The 2000 Surgeon
General's Oral Health Report recommends a thorough oral examination
to detect signs of nutritional deficiencies as well as a number of
systemic diseases, including microbial infections, immune disorders,
injuries and some cancers.
The case report published in the Journal of Periodontology
describes how excessive swollen gums, fatigue and weight loss
experienced by a 53-year-old man led to the diagnosis of acute
myelomonocytic leukemia. The patient consulted his dentist regarding
abrupt gingival inflammation throughout the mouth. The dentist referred
him to a periodontist who took a biopsy, which revealed leukemia. Blood
tests confirmed the findings and chemotherapy treatment was
administered.
"Oral health professionals, especially periodontists, should be aware
that enlarged gums may represent an initial manifestation of an
underlying systemic disease, such as leukemia or diabetes, and they
should collaborate with health providers for diagnosis," said Dr. John
Fantasia, chief, division of oral pathology, department of dental
medicine at the Long Island Jewish Medical Center.
He continued, "In fact, many patients see their dentist more often
than their physician; thus, oral health professionals should conduct a
thorough examination of the mouth to identify potential abnormalities."
The Surgeon General's report further reiterates that oral health
means much more than healthy teeth. It means being free of periodontal
diseases, chronic oral-facial pain conditions, oral and throat cancers,
as well as many other diseases and disorders that affect the mouth area.
"It is important not to become alarmed by every change in the way
your gums look or feel in light of this information," said Bueltmann.
"We just want people to realize that oral health shouldn't be taken for
granted."
He continued, "Gum swelling is quite common and may involve one area
of the gums surrounding a tooth or the entire gums in the mouth. In
addition, there are many causes of swollen gums that could be as minor
as hypersensitivity to chewing gum, reactions to prescription
medications or a popcorn kernel logged into the gums."
One of the most common reasons for swollen, bleeding gums is
gingivitis, the mildest form of periodontal disease where gums become
red, swell and bleed easily with brushing or flossing due to plaque
buildup. There is usually little or no discomfort at this stage, and it
is reversible with professional cleaning and good oral home care.
Research shows that nearly one in three U.S. adults aged 30 to 54 have
this or a more serious form of periodontal disease. However, gum
swelling could also be a way your mouth is telling you that something is
amiss with your health. Other reasons for swollen, bleeding gums could
be more serious conditions such as leukemia or diabetes.
"The most important message this tells us is that if you experience
swollen gums, bleeding upon brushing or flossing, or any other abnormal
symptoms in your mouth, you should call your dentist or periodontist for
a complete examination sooner rather than later," said Bueltmann.
Free oral health
brochures are available by calling 800-FLOSS-EM or
visiting the AAP's Web site at www.perio.org.
The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) was established in 1914
to focus on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases
affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth and in the
placement and maintenance of dental implants. To date, more than
7,500 dental professionals are members of AAP.
*EDITOR'S NOTE: A copy of the article titled "Oral Manifestations of
Acute Myelomonocytic Leukemia: A Case Report and Review of the
Classification of Leukemias" is available by calling the AAP Public
Affairs department at 312/573-3243 or 312/573-3242.
