Research has shown that there is a connection between oral health and health. For Baby Boomers this means maintaining proper care of their natural teeth since one of the biggest detriments to oral health – and potentially overall health – is tooth loss. If a tooth becomes infected and is not treated with root canal treatment, it typically must be extracted. Untreated infected teeth can lead to other oral complications, including gum disease. Several studies have demonstrated that gum, or periodontal, disease can lead to a variety of health complications, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes. A root canal procedure removes the infected tissue inside the tooth and helps to reduce the risk of periodontal disease. An additional study from the January 2007 Journal of the National Cancer Institute showed an increased risk of pancreatic cancer in individuals who had experienced tooth loss. Endodontists, the root canal specialists, can help. Root canals save more than 17 million teeth a year. Dr. Shepard Goldstein, president of the American Association of Endodontists, shares information on root canals and how they help maintain oral health.