Many people don’t realize that oral health and general health are linked. This is called Mouth-Body Connection. But if you think about it, our mouth is the gateway to our body. Sometimes pathogens and toxins sneak through the body’s defense mechanisms and hang around until the next brushing.
Good oral hygiene is an important daily routine to maintain a healthy balance. For example, frequent, proper brushing and flossing keeps bacteria at bay, preventing plaque build up that causes decay and gum disease. But bacteria can travel further than your mouth. Bacteria building up in the pockets between inflamed gums and teeth can enter the bloodstream, causing existing problems to become worse or creating new ones.
Oral health might effect your health
Your oral health might affect or contribute to many diseases and conditions. Such as:
- Cardiovascular disease. Research suggest that heart disease, clogged arteries and stroke may be linked to inflammation and infections of the mouth.
- Diabetes. Diabetes reduces the body’s resistance to infection. Research has shown that gum disease appears to be more frequent in people who have gum diabetes.
- Alzheimer’s disease. Research has found evidence that gum inflammation may contribute to brain inflammation.
- Pregnancy and birth. Gum disease has been linked to premature birth and low birthweight.
- Slow healing rate. Research has also found that people with gum disease or bad teeth have a more difficult time healing. This could range from slower healing from minor scratches to major surgery and even cancer treatments.
Tell your dentist
Tell your dentist and dental team about any health conditions. Your dentist should especially know about any heart conditions. Heart conditions include and not limited to: High blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart attach, heart murmur and stroke.
Also inform your dentist about other health conditions such as: diabetes, sleep apnea, depression and any ear, nose and throat conditions.
Mouth-body connection is important for everyone to understand. Choose medical and dental professionals that recognize and understand the connection.
