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A Japanese study published by the University of Tokyo Medical School concluded that tooth loss, swollen tongue, and recurrent gum bleeding are not just local indicators but early warnings for chronic diseases including type 2 diabetes, kidney failure, and heart disease.

The team analyzed data from 12,000 patients over 5 years and found that those who lost more than 8 teeth were 37% more likely to develop diabetes compared to individuals with healthy mouths. Researchers believe that chronic inflammation caused by oral bacteria allows atherosclerotic pathogens to enter the bloodstream, accelerating damage to the microvessels in the kidneys and heart.

The study recommends including dental examinations in early detection protocols for non-communicable diseases, especially in primary care centers. The Japanese Dental Association commented that integrating oral health professionals into comprehensive care teams could reduce long-term treatment costs by nearly two billion dollars annually in Japan alone.

In the same context, the Japanese Ministry of Health launched the "Your Mouth is Your Health Window" campaign to encourage semi-annual check-ups and professional tartar cleaning as a first line of defense.

* Tooth loss is an early warning

* Gum inflammation raises blood sugar

* Comprehensive oral examinations are required