6 Health Issues Linked to Poor Oral Health

Did you know your mouth is the gateway to your body? As a result, your oral health is directly entwined with your general health. Believe it or not, dental issues can increase your risk of several serious health concerns. If you don’t commit to keeping your smile healthy, you might need more than an emergency dentist in Rockledge. You may need to see a physician, too. Here are 6 health concerns linked to common dental problems.

1. Cardiovascular Disease

Next to tooth decay, gum disease is the biggest threat to your oral health, making it the leading cause of missing teeth. An incomplete smile isn’t the only complication of the infection. It also increases your risk of cardiovascular disease if the bacteria get into your bloodstream. This causes the arteries to harden, restricting blood flow, which raises the likeliness for high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke.

2. Dementia/Alzheimer’s Disease

Substances released by the infected gum tissue can damage healthy brain cells, which can lead to memory loss. There are several studies linking prolonged untreated gum disease to dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, researchers have even found the bacteria from gum disease in the brain tissues of Alzheimer’s patients.

3. Respiratory Infections

Bacteria from your mouth can be inhaled into the lungs or travel there from your bloodstream. This can increase the risk of several respiratory complications, such as pneumonia, COPD, and acute bronchitis.

4. Pregnancy Complications

Hormonal changes in the body during pregnancy cause women to be more prone to oral infections, which can lead to pregnancy complications. Periodontitis and gingivitis are connected to premature birth and low birth weights.

5. Cancer

Smoking or using tobacco products significantly increases the risk of oral and throat cancers. In addition, gum disease is linked to other cancers as well, such as kidney, pancreatic, and blood cancers.

6. Kidney Disease

Infections in the body, like periodontal disease, are known to cause kidney disease because it weakens the immune system. With the two often going hand-in-hand, it’s best to keep your smile healthy to lower your risk of kidney failure.

Invest in a Healthy Mouth and Body

You can keep your smile healthy to reach optimal wellness through a focus on prevention. It’s best to brush your teeth at least twice a day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean all surfaces of your teeth for at least 2 minutes each session. Don’t forget to use a high-quality dental floss to clean in between each tooth every night before going to bed.

Besides maintaining your teeth and gums at home, visit your dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup. They’ll help you maintain a healthy smile that lasts.

About Dr. Sowmya Kumar

Dr. Kumar provides the comfortable care patients need when experiencing oral pain, swelling, or other issues that require immediate attention. She earned her dental degree at the University of Florida College of Dentistry. As a lifelong learner, she regularly completes additional training to offer advanced services. If you have an untreated dental issue, contact our office today for an appointment.