4 Ways Dental Health Affects Your Body
Have you ever wondered if there is a connection between your oral health and overall health? Well, we have. Teeth are kind of our thing, so we did a little research into the subject and came up with 5 ways your dental health can affect your body.
Cardiovascular
Bacteria in your mouth can have a direct impact on your heart. If that isn’t enough incentive to see the dentist on a regular basis, then we don’t know what is.
Research has shown that heart disease, clogged arteries and stroke could be linked to inflammation and infections that oral bacteria can cause.
The good news? Daily brushing and flossing can keep bacteria under control. Pick up our Better Toothbrush or 3-in-One to ward off any sneaky bacteria.
Dementia
Bacteria in your mouth can lead to gingivitis, which can lead to the development of dementia. Gingivitis is a form of gum disease that happens when plaque, a naturally-occurring sticky film containing bacteria, builds up on teeth and causes inflammation of the surrounding gum tissue. Plaque produces toxins that irritate the gums.
The bacteria may enter the brain through nerve channels in the head or your bloodstream, which can lead to or progress Alzheimer’s disease.
Respiratory
In case you aren’t convinced that gum disease is the worst, it can lead to infections in your lungs, which includes pneumonia. Breathing in bacteria from infected teeth and gums over a long period of time takes its toll on your respiratory system.
Diabetes
The inflammation of your gum tissue and existing periodontal disease can make it harder to control your blood sugar, which can worsen diabetes symptoms. If you are a diabetic, you are much more susceptible to mouth issues. Proper dental care is imperative.
Prevention
The American Dental Association offers the following tips to keep your mouth and teeth in great shape.
- Brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day. Clean between your teeth with floss or another type of interdental cleaner once a day. Your dentist may recommend using an antimicrobial mouth rinse as part of your daily oral hygiene routine.
- Choose dental products with the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance, an important symbol of a dental product’s safety and effectiveness.
- Eat a balanced diet and limit snacks, which may reduce your risk of developing tooth decay and periodontal disease.
- Schedule regular dental checkups. Professional cleanings are the only way to remove calculus (tartar), which traps plaque bacteria along the gum line.
Your mouth is a window into the health of your body. Give it the attention it needs.