You may think that visiting your dentist just means you’re keeping your teeth and gums healthy, but you’re actually helping keep your entire body healthy too. Here are just some of the connections between your oral health and your overall health.
Digestion
If you have built up bacteria on your teeth and gums, swallowing them can affect your gut. Your immune system may not be strong enough the handle all of the bacteria, leading to more frequent illness and infection.
Immune System
Having a suppressed immune system can make developing diseases much more likely. Smokers, for example, are more likely to develop periodontal disease because smoking suppresses immunity. If you brush and floss twice a day but still develop gum disease, you may discover that your immune system is compromised.
Heart Disease
Studies show that people who have gum disease might be more likely to develop heart disease. The bacteria from gum disease can travel into the bloodstream and form plaque in the arteries.
Saliva
Saliva doesn’t just aid the first step of digestion. It also holds a lot of clues about the state of your overall health, and can be used to measure your hormone and even drug levels in your body. Dry mouth is a condition where there is decreased saliva production, which means that your body is less likely to wash away the bacteria that has built up on your teeth and in your gums on its own. This can increase your risk of cavities and gum disease.
Reproduction
Women with gum disease are at a higher risk of going into premature labor than those who don’t have it. As mentioned before, this is because they are swallowing bacteria that later enters their bloodstream and can affect their pregnancy.
When you keep up with your dental appointments, you’re not just looking out for your oral health; you’re keeping up with your total wellness. At LM Family Dentistry, we pay attention to the connection between the two, and we are here to address all of your needs and concerns. Contact us to schedule an appointment today!
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