Various health conditions can be linked to harmful oral bacteria and gum disease
Oral hygiene is about more than preserving your beautiful smile; it has a direct effect on your physical health. The mouth is home to an enormous amount of bacteria, and when you fail to brush and floss, that bacteria multiplies and impacts your whole body. Various health conditions can be linked to harmful oral bacteria and gum disease. Fortunately, many underlying oral health issues are treatable or completely preventable. Let’s go over how dental health affects overall health and why it matters.
The Connection Between Oral Hygiene and Overall Health
The mouth is the bridge to the heart, stomach, and other vital organs. It is possible for an infection or inflammation in the oral cavity to gradually spread to multiple areas of the body. Some of the most significant conditions that may be influenced by oral health include:
- Heart disease: Poor oral hygiene allows oral bacteria to get into your bloodstream. Research has shown that bacteria may play a role in the plaques that build up inside blood vessels. Plaque buildup in the arteries can cause a heart attack.
- Diabetes: If you have diabetes, it’s essential to know that your oral health can impact the control of your condition. And if you don’t have diabetes, be aware that poor oral health increases your risk of developing it. Poor blood sugar control increases the risk of gum disease, and inflammation from gum disease can worsen blood sugar control.
- Endocarditis: Endocarditis is an infection of the inner lining of the heart. When bacteria from your mouth spread through your bloodstream, they can attach to vulnerable areas in the endocardium and cause infections. It can lead to heart problems, kidney damage, and seizures when untreated.
How to Protect Your Teeth and Physical Health
Knowing how oral health affects overall health is just the beginning. It is crucial to learn what you can do to maintain the health of your mouth. Establishing and following an effective oral care routine is the best thing you do for yourself.
- Brush properly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to reduce the chance of tooth decay. Be sure to hold your brush at a 45-degree angle and move in a circular motion.
- Floss daily: Flossing cleans between teeth and gets under the gums. Doing so prevents gum disease and periodontal disease.
- Visit your dentist regularly: To eliminate the plaque and tartar that can accumulate on your teeth, you must see your dentist at least two times a year for a dental cleaning. During these cleanings, your dentist will examine your gum tissue and check for other evidence of gingivitis.
KEEP YOUR MOUTH HAPPY WITH FAMILY DENTISTRY AT ANNAPOLIS DENTAL CARE!
Whether it’s a regular check-up you need or a tooth extracted, your dentist in Annapolis is here to serve! Annapolis Dental Care has the expertise and compassion to work with you on improving your oral health. Your comfort and health are our top priorities, and so we go above and beyond to make our patients happy and give them the highest quality care. To set up an appointment today, please give us a call at 410-571-5014 or visit us online. For more oral health tips for you and your family, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube! We are always looking for new patients, so if you live in Arnold, Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, MD, come on down!