Ask any general dentist and they will tell you that your teeth can have a significant impact on your overall health. Your mouth is full of bacteria (just like many other parts of your body), and the body’s natural defenses are usually sufficient to keep bacteria colonies balanced and in check. However, failing to maintain good oral health with proper oral hygiene can allow oral bacteria colonies to flourish beyond healthy levels. When this happens, the same bacteria that cause inflammation in oral tissue can potentially spread to other parts of your body and cause general health problems.
According to Mayo Clinic, poor oral health can potentially contribute to the development of endocarditis (infection of the heart’s inner lining). It is thought that bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and travel to damaged areas of the heart.
As with endocarditis, research published in the journal Public Library of Science One shows a link between oral bacteria and infections and heart disease. If you have a family history of cardiovascular disease, you should be especially careful about maintaining good oral health and visiting your general dentist on a regular basis for checkups and thorough dental cleanings.
Diabetes has been linked to excessive inflammation, though the exact connection between the two is unclear. Individuals with gum disease may have a higher risk of experiencing worsening diabetes symptoms than those without gum disease. According to the National Institute of Health, this may be because gum disease makes it harder to control glucose.
The National Institute of Health suggests there may be a connection between poor oral health (specifically periodontal disease) and osteoporosis. Periodontal disease occurs when bacteria start to break down the bones and gums that support the teeth. Some studies show a strong relationship between periodontitis and general bone loss, although the relationship between the two is not fully understood.
Low birthweight and preterm births can cause infant deaths and health complications. In a study published in the Journal of Natural Science, Biology and Medicine, there appears to be a higher risk for low birthweight or preterm births among mothers who have periodontal disease. While more research is needed on the subject, it is wise to maintain good oral health if you want to minimize your risk of pregnancy and/or delivery complications.
Now that you understand some of the overall health risks associated with poor oral hygiene, it is time to go over some of the benefits of keeping your oral health intact. Here are just a few of the benefits you can experience if you maintain your oral health.
It appears that oral health is strongly linked to general health. If you are looking for ways to boost your overall health, you may want to start by visiting your general dentist and making sure you are taking good care of your teeth and gums.
Request an appointment here: https://www.mysaratogadentist.com or call My Saratoga Dentist PLLC at (518) 675-3094 for an appointment in our Saratoga Springs office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Helping younger patients establish healthy dental habits starts with the right environment and guidance. From the first visit, a dental practice has the opportunity to set the stage for positive oral care habits that will last into adulthood. The approach taken during these early years can make a big difference in how children view oral…
Visiting dental practices remains important for individuals seeking proper strategies to maintain clean teeth and healthy gums. Effective brushing and flossing habits prevent cavities and gum disease, contributing to oral comfort. While these techniques may appear simple, many people benefit from expert guidance to ensure thorough and gentle oral care. The following recommendations offer step-by-step…
Dental practices work to provide strategies and guidance to individuals for maintaining strong teeth and gums. While brushing and flossing are indispensable habits, the foods and beverages individuals consume each day also influence oral health. Having a firm grasp on food, particularly how it affects oral health, can reduce the risk of tooth decay, enamel…
You are not alone if your busy schedule has prevented you from making regular visits to a dental practice. Though dental visits are important for oral health, people often put them off for a number of reasons, such as a lack of time. However, the following are signs that it is time to prioritize getting…
Helping younger patients establish healthy dental habits starts with the right environment and guidance. From the first visit, a dental practice has the opportunity to set the stage for positive oral care habits that will last into adulthood. The approach taken during these early years can make a big difference in how children view oral…
Visiting dental practices remains important for individuals seeking proper strategies to maintain clean teeth and healthy gums. Effective brushing and flossing habits prevent cavities and gum disease, contributing to oral comfort. While these techniques may appear simple, many people benefit from expert guidance to ensure thorough and gentle oral care. The following recommendations offer step-by-step…