The Link Between Oral Health and Overall Health
How Our Oral Health and Overall Body Health are Connected
At Green Dental Care in Parker CO, we believe that oral health goes beyond just having a bright and healthy smile. In fact, research has shown that taking care of your oral health is directly connected to your overall health and well-being. In this blog post, we will explore the link between oral health and overall health, and why it’s important to take care of both.
Gum Disease and Heart Disease
Did you know that gum disease can increase your risk of heart disease? Studies have shown that the bacteria that causes gum disease can enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation in the blood vessels, which can eventually lead to heart disease. This is why it’s important to take care of your teeth and gums by brushing and flossing regularly, and visiting your dentist near you for regular check-ups and cleanings.
Diabetes and Gum Disease
Diabetes can affect your oral health, and vice versa. People with diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease, which can make it harder to control their blood sugar levels. In turn, gum disease can make diabetes worse by causing inflammation in the body. To keep your oral health in check if you have diabetes, it’s important to follow a consistent oral hygiene routine and see your Parker CO dentist regularly.
Respiratory Infections and Oral Health
There is also a link between poor oral health and respiratory infections. Bacteria in the mouth can be breathed into the lungs, causing infections like pneumonia or exacerbating existing respiratory conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). One of the best ways to prevent respiratory infections is to maintain good oral health habits like brushing and flossing.
Alzheimer’s Disease and Oral Health
Recent studies have also shown a link between oral health and Alzheimer’s disease. Inflammation and bacteria in the mouth have been found in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients, suggesting that poor oral health may be a risk factor. While more research is needed to fully understand the relationship, keeping your oral health in check may be a key piece in protecting yourself from Alzheimer’s disease.
Pregnancy and Oral Health
Finally, pregnant women need to pay special attention to their oral health. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make gums more susceptible to infection, leading to a condition called pregnancy gingivitis. This can cause complications like preterm birth and low birth weight. To protect yourself and your baby, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene during pregnancy, including regular dental check-ups and cleanings.
Contact Us Today!
Taking care of your oral health isn’t just about having a bright and healthy smile. It’s also about protecting yourself from serious health conditions like heart disease, respiratory infections, and Alzheimer’s disease. At Green Dental Care, we believe in the importance of taking a whole-body approach to dental care. By practicing good oral hygiene habits like brushing and flossing regularly, and seeing your dentist for check-ups and cleanings, you can help ensure your overall health and well-being. If you have any questions or concerns about your oral health, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us today.