Oral hygiene affects more than just your mouth. The condition of your teeth and gums directly correlates to the overall health of each of your body systems. There are several general health conditions related to oral health. If your oral health is not good, it could lead to serious but preventable conditions.
What are Some Signs of Poor Oral Health?
Some signs of poor oral health are more obvious than others. Common indicators of dental problems include:
- Chronic bad breath
- Bleeding, swollen gums
- Dry mouth
- Receding gums
- Recurring or slow-to-heal ulcers in the mouth
- Loose or missing teeth
- Pain when biting down
- Tooth decay
- Temperature sensitivity (pain when eating hot or cold foods)
- Tooth erosion
Signs and symptoms may be sudden or develop (and worsen) over time.
What Causes Poor Oral Health?
There is no singular cause of poor oral health. Many dental problems stem from poor dental hygiene, while others may be caused by diet, injury, or genetics.
If you are experiencing signs or symptoms of a dental health condition, it is important that you are evaluated by a dentist to address any concerns before they develop into something more serious.
Conditions Related to Oral Health
The health of your mouth can impact the health of your entire body. Some common conditions related to oral health include:
Stroke
Recent studies have shown a direct correlation between gum disease and the chance of stroke.[1] Gum inflammation and bleeding have been shown to change how oxygen and blood reach the brain.
In the ARIC study of 10,362 patients who had not previously had a stroke, 584 participants had an ischemic stroke over 15 years.[2] Patients were assessed for gum disease, and the resulting data shows that there is a significant association between stroke and poor oral health.
Heart Disease
It is estimated that 7.2% of US adults ages 20 or older have coronary artery disease (CAD).[3] Improving your oral health may significantly reduce your chances of developing this deadly condition. Poor oral hygiene increases the risk of bacterial infection of the blood, which can affect the heart’s valves.
Respiratory Illnesses
There is an undeniable link between oral health problems and respiratory issues. Cavities, gum disease, and other bacterial infections can lead to lung infections as bacteria is inhaled into the lungs.
As a result, patients with poor oral health may develop pneumonia and increase their risk of emphysema and COPD. Patients with poor oral health may also experience more severe symptoms of the flu or COVID-19.[4]
Alzheimer’s Disease
This is a progressive brain disease affecting memory, cognition, and behavior. Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging, and many researchers believe that the risk of developing the disease may be reduced through proper oral care.
High amounts of bacteria in the mouth and inflammation can raise the risk of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain, which is associated with dementia and the development of Alzheimer’s. [5]
Will Dental Care Help if I Already Have One Of These Conditions?
It’s never too late to improve your oral health. If you are already suffering from one of the above-listed conditions, make an appointment with your dentist to learn more about how improving your oral health can slow the progression of these diseases.
Top Tips for Maintaining Excellent Oral Hygiene
Although not every instance of stroke, heart disease, respiratory disease, or Alzheimer’s Disease is related to poor oral health, taking care of your mouth and teeth can help you reduce your chances of developing these diseases.
Here’s how:
Brush at Least Two Times Daily
Twice-daily brushing is crucial in removing food particles from the teeth and preventing bacteria build-up in the mouth. Brushing at least once in the morning and once before you go to bed can significantly impact your oral health.
Floss, Floss, Floss
The importance of flossing can’t be overstated! Twice daily flossing helps remove any food debris stuck between the teeth and loosens bacteria in areas that can’t be reached with a toothbrush.
Avoid Sugary Food and Drink
Sugary food and drinks can wreak havoc on your oral health. Consume sparingly sodas, candies, and other sugary items–and always brush and floss soon after!
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
One of the best things you can do for your oral health is to schedule regular visits with your dentist in Albion. Regular trips to the dentist can not only help prevent any current diseases from progressing but can prevent them in the first place.
Dental cleanings should happen at least every six months. However, if you are showing signs of an oral health condition or are experiencing a dental emergency–don’t wait! Make an appointment right away.
Gentle Dental Care in Albion
Whether it’s been six months or six years since your last dental appointment, it’s never too late to take care of your teeth. Our team of dental providers is committed to helping you better your oral health so that you can live a life of optimal health and wellness.
Dental care is a crucial step in preventing systemic illnesses. Call and schedule an appointment with our team today and start improving your dental health at 585-589-9044.
Sources:
[1] https://www.dentalhealth.org/news/gum-disease-doubles-stroke-risk-according-to-new-study
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5780242/
[3] https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/facts.htm
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3786481/
[5] https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/large-study-links-gum-disease-dementia