How Your Dental Health Can Impact Your Overall Health

When we think of oral health, we generally only think of our pearly whites. Oral health encompasses far more than just a person’s smile, however. As important as having a beautiful set of teeth is, the fact is that poor dental health can cause some serious health problems that go well beyond the aesthetics of it. For this reason, it is imperative that you get regular dental check-ups to ensure your oral health is on-point, so you can avoid facing worse problems in other areas later on.

Here are some of the negative impacts poor oral health can have on a person:

• Diabetic problems: If you suffer from gum disease, this can make it more challenging to control blood sugar, which can worsen one’s diabetes symptoms. Those who have diabetes are also more prone to developing gum disease, which is why proper oral health care is all the more essential.
• Cardiovascular issues: When a person’s gums are inflamed, the bacteria can enter the bloodstream, infiltrating the heart’s arteries and causing them to harden. When the heart’s arteries harden, this causes plaque to develop within their walls, reducing blood flow throughout the body. Ultimately, if this condition gets out of hand, it can increase one’s risk of a stroke or heart attack. It is also possible for the heart’s lining to become inflamed, resulting in endocarditis.
• Degenerative cognitive diseases: Bacteria caused by gingivitis can potentially enter the brain, which can contribute to the development of degenerative cognitive diseases like dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
• Infections of the respiratory system: According to the Journal of Periodontology, gum disease can also result in respiratory infections, such as pneumonia. Bacteria in your mouth is far more harmful than many think.

Proper brushing and flossing is crucial for eliminating harmful bacteria and keeping it from building up and affecting other areas of your health. Make sure you brush after every meal, using a fluoride toothpaste, and floss every day. Good oral hygiene is the key to not only having the perfect smile, but to staying healthy overall, so if it has been a while since your last dental appointment, do so now! Your dentist is the best line of defense against developing oral health issues and, consequently, several other health conditions that could pose a significant risk to your well-being.

Schedule an Appointment with Advanced Dental Care of Las Colinas Today!

Good oral hygiene is not just about having a white smile, but also about staying healthy. At Advanced Dental Care of Las Colinas, we are committed to helping every patient learn proper dental care. We will detect and treat any dental problems you are suffering from. With us, you will have a lot more to smile about for years to come. We are prepared to handle cosmetic issues, dental emergencies, and preventive dentistry services.

Call our office today at (972) 506-9688 to schedule a dental appointment and learn more about the many exceptional services we offer.