Summary
Emerging studies are starting to show a strong link between oral health and gut health. Periodontal bacteria have been
shown to worsen inflammatory bowel disease and potentially play a role in the development of colon cancer. This webinar
will examine the emerging evidence on how the oral microbiome and subsequent inflammation play a role in
gastrointestinal health.
Presenter
Carol A. Jahn, RDH, MS
Carol Jahn, RDH, MS, has a BS in dental hygiene from the University of Iowa and an MS in continuing education from the
University of St Francis. She has been a dental hygienist since 1982 and practiced clinically for 14 years in general
and periodontal practices. She is an international speaker, author, and industry leader. Currently, she is the Director
of Professional Relations & Education for Water Pik, Inc. Carol received the ADHA/J&J Award of Excellence in 2013,
served on the board of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association, and has been a delegate to the International
Federation of Dental Hygiene. She lives in the Chicago suburbs with her partner, Larry, and their dog, Toby.
Learning Outcomes
After the webinar, participants will be able to:
- Understand how Porphyromonas gingivalis may contribute to a dysbiotic gut microbiota
- Explain how oral inflammation plays a role in worsening Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
- Evaluate the research linking periodontitis to colon cancer and pancreatic cancer
- Discuss the role periodontal therapy and good oral hygiene may have on gastrointestinal health