Did you know that your oral health is closely linked to your overall well-being? It might surprise you, but the state of your mouth can have a significant impact on your general health. Here is the connection between oral health and overall health and why taking care of your teeth and gums goes beyond just having a great smile:
Cardiovascular Health
Believe it or not, your oral health can influence your heart health. Gum disease brought on by poor dental hygiene might fuel the body’s inflammatory response. It is believed that this inflammation is connected to a number of cardiovascular conditions, such as heart disease and stroke.
Diabetes Management
Diabetes has a connection between oral health and overall health. If left untreated they can lead to gum disease, while gum disease can also make it harder to control blood sugar levels. Keeping your gums healthy can positively impact your diabetes management.
Respiratory Health
The entrance to your respiratory system is through your mouth. Inhaling bacteria from oral infections into the lungs increases the risk of respiratory infections and aggravates illnesses like pneumonia. Keeping up with good oral hygiene can lower your risk of developing these issues.
Pregnancy Health
Expecting mothers should pay extra attention to their oral health. Premature birth, low birth weight, and other pregnancy issues have all been linked to poor dental health during pregnancy.
Both the mom and the infant need to practice good oral hygiene and have regular dental exams.
Inflammation and Chronic Diseases
Chronic inflammatory conditions like gum disease can contribute to systemic inflammation throughout the body. Numerous illnesses, including rheumatoid arthritis, several malignancies, and even Alzheimer’s disease, have been linked to this persistent inflammation. Book an appointment at our office today to learn how oral health affects general health.