In South Korea, cerebrovascular disease cases are rising. According to the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service, approximately 1.17 million people were diagnosed with cerebrovascular conditions in 2022, a 21.1% increase from 2018. The surge is particularly striking among adults in their 20s and 30s.
Cerebrovascular diseases, such as stroke and vascular dementia, occur when blood vessels in the brain become blocked or rupture. While hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia are established risk factors, recent studies point to periodontal disease—commonly known as gum disease—as a significant contributor to brain health risks.
Gum Disease: A Systemic Threat to Brain Health
No longer just a dental concern, gum disease poses a systemic threat with potential consequences for brain health. Fortunately, proper oral hygiene can significantly mitigate these risks.
Preventing Gum Disease: Focus on Gums and Interdental Spaces
Dental plaque, a sticky film of bacteria and food debris that accumulates between teeth and along the gumline, is the primary cause of gum disease. Effective prevention requires targeted care of these areas.
The Korean Association of Oral Health recommends the Modified Bass Technique for brushing: Hold the toothbrush like a pencil, angle the bristles at 45 degrees toward the gumline, gently vibrate in place 5–10 times, and then sweep toward the tooth surface.
Balancing Plaque Removal and Gum Protection
Effective brushing removes plaque without irritating the gums, requiring careful control of pressure. For those who find manual brushing challenging, sonic electric toothbrushes offer an alternative. These devices use air bubbles to gently clean interdental spaces and the gumline while reducing excessive pressure that could harm gums.
Prevention Through Consistent Habits
Preventing gum disease starts with disciplined oral hygiene. Experts advise brushing within one minute after meals for at least two minutes, three times daily.
Dr. Yong-Duk Park, president of the Korean Association of Oral Health, emphasized the value of proper technique. "While gum disease can be effectively prevented through correct brushing, about 19.5 million people in South Korea sought treatment for it last year," he said. "We are committed to expanding education and awareness to promote standard brushing methods."
Lim Hye Jung, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM
press@hinews.co.kr
