Dental health is something that seems limited to our mouths at first glance. However, the quality of your oral health has a major impact on the rest of your body. Here are five ways dental health impacts your overall well-being.
1. Inflammation
Periodontitis, also called gum disease, is one of the leading dental conditions that contribute to poor health throughout the rest of the body.
The inflammation that periodontal disease causes in the gums can additionally affect the rest of your body and lead to other inflammatory conditions.
2. Diabetes
Gum disease and diabetes are two illnesses that are frequently connected. Periodontal disease affects blood sugar levels and impairs natural insulin production.
Patients who already suffer from diabetes may find that their condition worsens as they develop gum disease. On the flip side, gum disease sufferers have a higher risk of developing diabetes in the future. Treating oral health conditions goes a long way in improving symptoms in diabetic patients.
3. Heart Health
Many people who suffer from oral diseases such as periodontitis often have heart disease as well.
Lifestyle factors such as excessive weight, smoking, and consuming processed foods cause both heart and gum disease. Additionally, the inflammatory effect of periodontitis may also cause inflamed blood vessels that harm your heart health.
4. Respiratory Diseases
Poor oral health can worsen or cause respiratory illness in vulnerable patients. Individuals with conditions such as COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and conditions such as gum disease, tooth decay, and dry mouth exacerbate symptoms.
Bad bacteria can also cause respiratory infections, including pneumonia, when it spreads from the mouth to the lungs.
5. Dementia
Cardiovascular diseases are not the only conditions that poor oral health may cause or worsen. The bad bacteria that can enter the bloodstream from infected teeth and gums do not only affect heart health. This dangerous bacteria may also travel to the brain and cause or accelerate conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
Why Dental Health Matters
While cosmetic dental treatments often enhance peoples’ smiles and boost their confidence, regular dental care serves more than aesthetic purposes only. The quality of your dental health is connected directly to your general well-being.
Practicing healthy habits such as eating whole foods and taking care of your oral hygiene helps to keep you healthy long term.
Are you looking for a new and reliable dentist in Bismarck? Fill out our contact form or phone our team at Brend Dental to schedule an appointment with us right away.