Visiting your family dentist regularly is key to an attractive and healthy smile, but it is also important for your overall health and wellness. While surprising to hear, focusing on you oral health will reduce the risk of health problems affecting your body. Using this guide, you will understand the correlation between a healthy mouth and healthy body.
Preventing Bacteria in the Mouth
Your mouth plays host to millions of germs and bacteria, which increase your risk of developing certain illnesses and serious dental problems such as periodontal disease. Thankfully, proper brushing reduces bacteria in your teeth and gums, decreasing the risk of bacteria moving through your bloodstream. In addition to your own brushing and flossing, visit your family dentist for cleanings twice a year.
Improved Saliva Production
Saliva production is also important in fighting this bacteria. Unfortunately, certain medications, foods, and habits reduce your mouth’s production of saliva. Avoid medications that cause dry mouth, reduce your intake of caffeine, and stop using tobacco and smoking cigarettes to protect your mouth’s natural flow of salvia.
Understanding Medical Conditions
The overall health of your mouth, teeth, and gums may affect or contribute to certain medical conditions and diseases.
If bacteria from your mouth spreads through your bloodstream, you are at a higher risk of developing an infection on the inner lining of your heart. Known as endocarditis, this infection is treatable, but it may damage areas of your heart. Endocarditis also increases your risk of other cardiovascular issues such as heart disease.
If you have diabetes, taking care of your teeth and gums is imperative. Since the body struggles to fight off infections, you may develop gum disease, which can be problematic when managing your blood sugar levels. Gum disease is not only a dental concern, but it has also been linked to other medical conditions such as high blood pressure, Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
A healthy smile is not only important for your overall look, but it can mean the difference to your underlying health and wellness. Contact Family Smiles Dental Group at 972-539-0608 for other tips on how to maintain a healthy mouth and healthy body.