A consistent and proper oral hygiene routine is essential to maintain the health of your pearly whites and gums. Not only does brushing and flossing keep your smile beautiful, but it also keeps it safe from tooth decay and gum disease. But did you know that the state of your dental health can impact your overall health? Since your mouth is the gateway to your entire body, it is susceptible to being affected by any oral health issues. With that in mind, here are four common and serious health problems caused by poor oral health.
#1. Cardiovascular Disease
Cardiovascular disease is caused by a buildup and hardening of plaque in the arteries. While this can be caused by several factors, did you know that dental plaque can also contribute to weakening your heart? If enough bad bacteria build in your mouth due to excess plaque, it can lead to inflammation of your gums. This infection can get into your bloodstream, increasing the plaque in the arteries of your heart. With more than half of Americans suffering from some stage of gum disease, it is important to visit your dentist to get it treated to keep your smile and heart healthy!
#2. Diabetes
If you have diabetes, you are unfortunately more susceptible to gum disease. Once the gums become more inflamed, it can make your blood sugar levels even more hard to manage. With gum disease making it harder to manage your condition, it is essential to be consistent and thorough with cleaning your teeth twice a day and flossing daily.
#3. Dementia
Surprisingly, there is even a link between the condition of your smile and the health of your brain. When your gums become infected and inflamed, they release substances that can damage your brain cells. When you have bacterial build-up on your gums, the germs can also spread through the bloodstream and nerve channels, which directly impacts your brain. This all can lead to memory loss and put you at a greater risk of dementia. In addition to your oral health routine, be sure to visit your dentist for your bi-yearly checkups and exams to keep any infections at bay.
#4. Pregnancy Complications
Are you expecting a little one soon? If so, it’s vital to care for your smile! The hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy may cause an increased risk of oral infections. This can lead to higher chances of pregnancy complications, which is why your regular brushing and flossing is so important. Additionally, gum disease has been known to contribute to premature birth and low birth weight.
Keeping your teeth and gums healthy does more than just make your smile beautiful–it can contribute to your overall well-being. With awareness of the connection between the two, you can do all you can to keep your oral health in tip-top shape!
About the Practice
Chardon Smile Center is eager to help you keep your smile whole and healthy through its dental experts. They offer a full range of dental services, including preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency care. By using personalized plans and the latest dental technology, they can help you with any oral health issue to keep your teeth, gums, and body in their best condition. To schedule an appointment, contact them through their website or call (440) 286-2474.