You never imagined your oral health could have such an impact on the rest of your body. Recent research has linked common oral issues such as gum disease to several other health problems found throughout the body. Knowing the facts about how your mouth, teeth, and gums can affect your general wellbeing can help you make necessary lifestyle changes to prevent illnesses and diseases. Your dentist in Lawrenceville discusses how you can protect yourself by learning the links between your oral and overall health. Read on to learn about what the research says.
How Is Your Mouth Connected To Your Overall Wellbeing?
Your body is home to an untold number of different bacteria. Some of these bacteria are helpful, while others are harmful and can put your health at risk. Keeping up with your oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly is a great way to help your body’s natural defense system and keep the harmful bacteria under control. When you don’t keep up with this, bacteria can build up and lead to common oral problems such as gum disease. Recent studies have linked this disease to additional illnesses and diseases found throughout the body.
It’s not always poor oral hygiene that causes gum disease symptoms to appear. When you take certain medications such as decongestants, antihistamines, and antidepressants, it can cause dry mouth. Your saliva is vital in neutralizing acids and rinsing away food debris. When you don’t produce enough, it can cause a bacterial invasion and result in gum disease.
What Health Problems Are Connected To Your Oral Health?
The good news is that oral health problems like gum disease can be treated and prevented when they’re caught early. However, when the disease is left to progress, it can have detrimental effects on not just your oral health, but also the rest of your body. When harmful oral bacteria are left to multiply, they begin to release toxins that can get into your bloodstream and spread throughout the body. Here are some health issues connected to your oral health:
- Heart Disease: Recent studies discuss links between heart issues and gum disease. The inflammation caused by oral bacteria may lead to the same inflammation found in the heart in cardiovascular disease patients.
- Alzheimer’s Disease: Research has found that patients with progressing Alzheimer’s typically have worsening oral health.
- Induced Labor and Premature Birth: A build-up of oral bacteria can cause an increase of labor-inducing biological fluids, leading to the birth of underweight babies.
These are just a few of the health issues connected to oral bacteria. Research has also linked diabetes, osteoporosis, and strokes to oral health issues.
How Can You Protect Yourself?
Protecting your oral health is easier than you thought. Just remember to brush your teeth and floss daily. The best way to spot the small issues while they’re still treatable is to visit your dental professional for your semi-annual checkup and cleaning. During your visit, they’ll inspect your mouth for signs of oral cancer and gum disease and make sure your oral hygiene routine is effective. Remember that by keeping up with your oral health, you’re also taking care of your overall health!
About the Author
Dr. Bruce Carter provides each of his patients with one-on-one attention so he can give them the individualized treatment they deserve. He’s been improving patient’s smiles for over 3 decades and has treated a variety of oral health issues. He takes continuing education courses to keep up to date with the most recent advancements in his field so he can give his patients the highest quality of care. For any questions or to schedule a semi-annual checkup and cleaning, visit his website or contact 770-995-7616.