You might assume that poor oral health only affects your teeth and gums, but unfortunately, it can go further than that. Research has shown that there are many medical complications that could potentially be caused by issues originating in your mouth. Your preventive dentist is here to help you keep your smile and your body safe by explaining 5 problems that could be the result of poor oral health.
1. Heart Problems
You may have heard that gum disease can potentially increase your risk of experiencing heart attacks and other cardiovascular problems. Many researchers believe that this may be the result of the bacteria responsible for gum disease entering the bloodstream and causing inflammation in the blood vessels. This is a major reason why it’s important to be proactive about having gum disease treated as soon as possible.
2. Cancer
Studies have shown that people with poor oral hygiene have a significantly higher risk for oral cancer, particularly if they also use tobacco products of any kind. On top of that, there’s also evidence suggesting a connection between bad oral health and an increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer, kidney cancer, and blood cancer.
3. Diabetes
If you have gum disease, you may find it difficult to keep your blood sugar levels under control. This can make you more likely to develop diabetes. On top of that, diabetes can potentially make gum disease more severe by compromising the immune system and hurting its ability to fight off infection. The result is a vicious cycle where diabetes and gum disease continue to make each other worse.
4. Alzheimer’s
Researchers have found that Porphyromonas gingivalis, a type of bacteria associated with gum disease, is often found in the brains of patients with Alzheimer’s. It is thought that these bacteria enter the bloodstream and travel to the brain, resulting in damage to the cells that can lead to memory problems.
5. Respiratory Infections
If there are a lot of harmful bacteria living in your mouth, there’s a chance that you might breathe them in by accident. This could lead to a wide variety of respiratory illnesses, including bronchitis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
How Can You Protect Your Overall Health?
Taking excellent care of your mouth can go a long way toward protecting the rest of your body. Make sure that you’re practicing the right oral health habits, such as brushing at least twice a day and minimizing your intake of sugary foods. And of course, you should make a point of visiting your dentist at least twice a year; they can give your smile a thorough cleaning and let you know if there are any problems that need to be addressed before they turn into severe issues.
About the Practice
At Family Dental Center of East Texas, our dental team makes it easy to get the quality dental care that your entire family deserves. We offer preventive checkups and cleanings for patients of all ages, and we offer a wide range of services to help everyone who walks into our office maintain healthy smiles. If you would like to schedule a consultation at our office in Center, TX, visit our website or call (936) 427-9070.