Neighbor News
You Might Be More Like A-Rod Than You Know
Alex Rodriguez says he's been diagnosed with a disease that affects over 65 million Americans
You may know him from his playing days. You may know him from the broadcast booth. But if you live in our area, chances are you've heard of former Yankee, three-time MVP and 14-time All Star Alex Rodriguez. And while his MLB accomplishments aren't achievable for everyone, he wants you to know there's one thing he has that anyone of us could have, too.
A-Rod has gum disease. And like millions of others, he was not expecting to hear it.
"Looks can be deceiving," he said after his diagnosis. "I just recently went to see my dentist and not thinking anything about gum disease. And the dentist tells me the news, and then I come to find out over 65 million Americans have this gum disease."
Find out what's happening in Holmdel-Hazletwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
46% of U.S. adults 30 and over have some form of gum disease. Rodriguez, 47, falls into that category. “I was honestly surprised. I take good care of my teeth — brushing and flossing daily. It can happen to anyone."
It can happen to anyone, which is why A-Rod has been making the rounds on national news shows and in newspaper and magazine articles, to make people more aware of the symptoms and consequences. Gum disease (periodontal disease) starts as gingivitis, then progresses to the more damaging periodontitis.
Find out what's happening in Holmdel-Hazletwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Rodriguez cautions people to seek treatment if they notice even small symptoms, like swelling, puffiness or even a little blood in the sink after flossing or brushing. While these don't seem like emergencies, they mean bacteria around your teeth is already causing infection. Without treatment that infection will only grow worse, making gums pull away from teeth and eventually causing tooth loss.
Additionally, periodontal disease has been linked to increased risk of diabetes, stroke, heart conditions, Alzheimer's and more. It's hard to think of a better reason to get a periodontal assessment and find treatment that can stop gum disease in its tracks. Luckily early intervention can stop gum disease before it becomes that serious, and modern techniques can repair damage.
We may not all have Gold Glove awards and a World Series championship. But we all have teeth and gums. And instructions from a big league legend to take care of our health.
