Oral health extends far beyond the teeth and gums. In fact, a person’s oral health can serve as a window into an individual’s whole body health. Poor oral health can cause or contribute to an array of holistic health problems, so let’s take a look at those conditions.
Cardiovascular Disease
According to the AAOSH, Periodontal Disease has a direct link to artery inflammation. When bacteria from the mouth enters the bloodstream, it can cause arteries to harden, which increases an individual’s risk of having a stroke or heart attack.
Poor oral hygiene can also increase blood pressure and LDL cholesterol, both of which further increase an individual’s cardiovascular risks. By maintaining proper care of the teeth and gums, individuals can both prevent gum disease and help preserve their heart health.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Bacteria from the mouth doesn’t only enter the bloodstream and affect the heart, but it affects the brain as well. Oral bacteria can kill brain cells and contribute to memory loss. The scientific community suggests that poor oral health is connected to Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia.
As such, taking care of your teeth and gums can prevent bacteria from reaching the brain and as a result, can help enhance one’s brain health.
High Blood Sugar
Gum disease and poor oral hygiene make a person not only more likely to develop diabetes, but for individuals who already live with this condition, gum disease becomes more likely due to the increased risk of developing oral infections. Gum disease, according to the ADA, causes inflammation in the body, which leads to elevated blood sugar levels. As such, poor oral hygiene makes it not only more likely to develop diabetes, but also more likely to develop complications associated with blood sugar levels.
These are just a few of the very serious health conditions that poor oral health can either cause or exacerbate. To prevent these conditions from developing or worsening, it’s essential to take good care of your teeth.
Brush and floss daily, and if you have not seen a dentist in six months, book an appointment with Golden Heart Dental for a routine checkup and cleaning.