How Can My Oral Hygiene Affect My Overall Health?
Did you know that an unhealthy mouth, especially if you have gum disease, may increase your risk of health problems? Practicing good oral hygiene and scheduling your dental checkup and cleaning twice a year will prevent many serious health conditions, and will leave you enjoying a bright and healthy smile.
Health Risks of Poor Oral Hygiene
Following are some health conditions linked to poor oral hygiene:
Cardiovascular Disease: Did you know that gum disease (periodontal disease) can put you at risk for heart disease? Believe it or not, bacteria causing periodontal disease can get into your bloodstream resulting in plaque buildup in arteries, decreased blood flow, and may potentially increase the risk of hypertension and strokes.
Respiratory Infections: Bacteria from infected teeth and gum disease can enter the lungs through the bloodstream or by breathing them in, leading to a host of respiratory infections including acute bronchitis, pneumonia, and more.
Diabetes: People with diabetes are more susceptible than others to infection, so periodontal disease can make diabetes more difficult to control. Diabetes patients need to take extra special care of their oral health to avoid any complications. Another point to keep in mind is that gum disease often leads to higher than normal blood sugar levels, meaning a person with poor oral health may be at increased risk of developing diabetes.
Other Complications: Poor oral health has also been linked to pregnancy complications, infertility, cancer, kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and more.
A Healthy Mouth for a Healthy Body
Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily. Limit the intake of sugary foods and drinks, and avoid smoking or chewing tobacco products. Make sure to consume a balanced, nutritious diet. It’s also essential that you schedule your dental visit with us at High Street Dentistry twice a year for your regular exams and cleanings. If you notice any symptoms between your regular exams that cause concern, contact us and come in for prompt treatment to prevent any condition from progressing. Keeping your mouth healthy and clean will reflect positively on your overall health.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Visit us at High Street Dentistry to learn more about keeping your mouth at tip-top shape. Our highly trained and experienced team is passionate about offering quality care in a comfortable environment. We are all about keeping your smile healthy for a lifetime!