How Oral Health Impacts Your Overall Health

How Oral Health Impacts Your Overall Health

Posted by Lone Star Dental Care Jun 10, 2020

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They say your eyes are a window to your soul, but did you know that your oral health is a window to your overall health? Cutting your oral health routine short will likely have a domino effect on your overall health. Our dentist serving Plano and surrounding areas are here to provide you with the information that you need to properly care for yourself. 

Explaining the Connection

Your mouth is full of mostly harmless bacteria, but it acts as an entry point for other, potentially harmful bacteria to enter your system. Daily brushing and flossing can help control the bacteria in your mouth, but without taking the proper steps to care for your mouth, you put yourself at risk. As a result, you may begin to experience gum disease and tooth decay. 

Furthermore, medications like decongestants, painkillers, antihistamines, diuretics and antidepressants may reduce the flow of saliva. This means your mouth is drier and unable to neutralize the acids that bacteria produce. These microbes may multiply and result in even more serious complications like a disease. In fact, studies suggest that periodontitis, a severe gum disease, is linked to the development of some diseases. 

Conditions Linked to Poor Oral Health

More specific examples of how your oral health is linked to your overall health include:

Pneumonia: If certain bacteria in your mouth are transferred to your lungs, pneumonia and other respiratory-related diseases may develop. 

Cardiovascular disease: Heart disease, clogged arteries and stroke may be linked to certain bacteria found in the mouth.

Pregnancy and/or birth complications: The development of bacteria in the mouth is linked to low birth weight and premature birth. 

Endocarditis: The endocardium (the inner lining of the heart) may become infected from bacteria from other parts of the body, including the mouth. Your bloodstream spreads the bacteria and it may attach to particular areas of the heart.

Combating Oral Health Complications

One simple way to lower your risk of oral health complications is by visiting our dentist near Plano on a regular basis. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and take the time to floss daily as well. Ensure your diet is well-balanced and limit foods that have added sugars. 

If you have further questions about your oral health, please feel free to reach out to us at Lone Star Dental Care! We look forward to serving you soon.

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