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Dental Health Is Not Only Important for Your Teeth

Posted July 27, 2020 in General Dental Care, Good Oral Hygiene

2 Minute Read: 

Your mouth reveals a lot about the health of your whole body. Did you know that periodontitis has been linked to stroke, heart disease, and bacterial pneumonia? 

Collage of healthy, bright smiles in the shape of a heart. o

There’s an important connection between your oral health and your overall physical well-being.

How Can Good Dental Care Help Me Be Healthier?

Gum disease and tooth decay often play a role in other health issues. By practicing good dental hygiene, you can avoid or minimize this risk. Part of that care is seeing a dentist regularly (meaning at least twice a year).

Your dentist will notice potential problems before you do. With preventative care, you can reduce the damage. He can also diagnose oral conditions you may miss. Early treatment and intervention make a big difference for a better outcome.

How Does Dental Health Contribute to Heart Disease?

A growing number of studies show a link between gum disease and cardiovascular disease. While preventing periodontal disease doesn’t mean you can necessarily prevent heart disease, there are benefits:

  • You lessen the chance of bacterial infection, which is dangerous for patients with heart problems.
  • Coronary artery disease and tooth loss are connected—so preventing tooth loss is desirable for your heart health.
  • You minimize the heart disease risk that’s associated with periodontitis.

Is There a Link Between My Teeth and Diabetes?

More than 29 million Americans live with diabetes. This disease impacts many aspects of a person’s life. If you have diabetes, it’s important that you maintain your health to prevent dangerous complications. Your oral health can signal problems related to your diabetes. Dry mouth and cavities caused by insufficient saliva may be a sign of untreated diabetes. Bleeding gums, sores in your mouth, and slow healing may be other signs to seek diagnosis and treatment.

Can Poor Dental Care Lead to Stroke?

Gum disease rears its ugly head again with a link to strokes. Some studies indicate that the chances of having a stroke are higher among people with periodontal disease. A recent Finnish study found high levels of mouth bacteria in the brains of stroke patients. And because heart disease can lead to stroke, that connection to gum disease is also worrying. Whether it’s eventually proven that gum disease is a contributing cause in strokes or not, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

What Can I Do to Improve My Oral Health?

The importance of good dental health habits cannot be overstated. Brush and floss frequently. Get regular dental checkups and treat oral health problems as soon as possible. Don’t put off necessary dental surgery when the need is indicated.

Interested in Learning More?

By embracing good dental habits, you can enjoy better whole-body health. Start with a thorough dental exam with Afshin Salamati, DDS, by filling out our online contact form or calling 310-275-1090 to reach our Beverly Hills, California, office.