The Surprising Connection Between Oral Health and Overall Health
We all know that oral health is important for avoiding cavities, maintaining pleasant breath and keeping your smile shining. But what if we told you that your oral health and the overall health of your body are linked? Not only can disease in your teeth and gums affect parts of your body nearby such as your throat or brain, but poor oral hygiene can impact organs as far as your heart, lungs, pancreas and even your joints.
How a Healthy Mouth Affects Your Body
You may be sick of hearing your dentist tell you the importance of flossing, but there are reasons behind their nagging. Researchers at the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry found that people with periodontitis (gum disease) were twice as likely to die of a heart attack and three times more likely to have a stroke. Studies have shown that gum disease is also linked to pre-diabetes, meaning you could be more likely to develop type 2 diabetes if you have periodontal disease, while also increasing your chances of developing pancreatic cancer. Learn more about the myths and facts about flossing from our team of professionals at Brightwork Family Dentistry of Richmond, VA.
If bacteria in your mouth can cause symptoms like bad breath as air leaves your body, it stands to reason that oral bacteria can travel to your lungs as air is drawn inside. Studies have linked cavities to respiratory diseases such as pneumonia. This same bacteria from having poor oral hygiene can cause or contribute to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, while gum disease can make flare-ups more likely.
“Periodontal disease can affect your health in ways you may not expect,” says Dr. Ben Crowley of Brightwork Family Dentistry. Scientists have been able to connect oral bacteria with the development of senile plaque in the brain, which is linked to Alzheimer’s Disease. While studies are still preliminary, this suggests that there could be a connection oral health and the overall health of the brain. Brightwork provides periodontal dental services to ensure early detection and prevention of serious issues to make sure that you keep a healthy mouth.
Poor Oral Hygiene and the Psychological Effects
Not only can the health of your teeth and gums affect your brain as an organ, but also your mind. Having inflamed gums or tooth decay can damage your confidence. When you pair this with bad breath caused by oral bacteria, you have a recipe for anxiety and self-consciousness. So not only is oral health important for your physical health, but also your mental and emotional well-being. Even if if poor oral hygiene isn’t the cause of any of these problems, it can serve as an indicator of your overall mental and physical health thus serving as an early warning sign for problems elsewhere.
The Importance of Oral Health
It’s clear from this handful of examples that having a healthy mouth is integral to maintaining overall wellness. In addition to the above examples, tooth decay and gum disease caused by oral bacteria can lead to arthritis and glaucoma, as well as preterm and low birthweight in pregnant individuals. So the next time your dentist bugs you about brushing twice a day and reminds you about the importance of flossing, remember that it isn’t just your smile they’re worried about, they’re looking out for your overall wellness and longevity. By staying up-to-date with receiving regular cleaning services with the amazing dentists at Brightwork Family Dentistry of Richmond, VA, you’ll not only keep your teeth happy and healthy but the rest of your mind and body as well. Request an appointment with our team today!
