Dental Care: How It Influences Your Total Physical Health
ORAL HEALTH PROBLEMS CAN AFFECT MORE THAN YOUR TEETH AND GUMS
Every single area of the human body influences the others, so problems that show up in one place can have a far-reaching impact. In today's article, our team at MINT dentistry in Uptown discusses the connections between your oral health and your complete health. Multiple studies are underway across the globe that are attempting to determine how oral health influences general health or how overall health can have consequences for oral health. Poor oral health (notably gum disease) can elevate your risk of ending up with cardiovascular disease, make it tougher to regulate diabetes, and, in women who are expecting, harm the infant's health. Every one of these are outstanding reasons to ensure you practice a good oral health regimen at home and attend regular visits with a dental professional in Dallas, TX.
HOW CAN YOUR TEETH AND GUMS INFLUENCE YOUR GENERAL HEALTH?
Your mouth can be seen as a gateway to many vital organs, including the stomach and heart. It makes sense that a disease or inflammation of the teeth or gums can swiftly spread to different parts of your body. These are some of the most threatening conditions that may be affected by your oral health:
- DEMENTIA
Scientists are exploring the link between good dental health and stronger cognitive function in older patients. For women and men with Alzheimer's disease, there is a likely link to poor oral health. Alzheimer's disease and impaired cognitive function frequently bring on more tooth and gum problems, most likely because the person has difficulty keeping to his or her home oral care routine. - PREGNANCY PROBLEMS
The variations in hormones during pregnancy can put women at greater risk for getting gum disease. Gingivitis during pregnancy causes inflamed gums that are prone to bleeding. Having advanced periodontal disease (periodontitis) while expecting has been shown to correlate with premature delivery and low birth weight. It follows that it's particularly important for women to practice good oral hygiene each day to steer clear of periodontal disease and other oral health concerns. - DIABETES
People with diabetes should give close attention to the condition of their gums to help control their blood sugar levels. Persistent or untreated gum disease could make it more challenging for the body to regulate blood sugar. If you have a problem with controlling your diabetes, arrange a checkup with a dentist in Dallas, TX to see if periodontal disease is part of the difficulty. - CARDIOVASCULAR PROBLEMS
There is data that shows that swelling in the mouth (usually from periodontal disease) can increase someone's probability of having a heart attack or stroke. Research is underway to examine the idea that oral bacteria could cause swelling in the veins.
CRUCIAL ORAL HYGIENE STEPS
There are a lot of things you can do to improve or sustain your oral health and, consequently, your general health. These begin with a good dental hygiene regimen at home and meeting with your dentist in Dallas, TX biannually.
- SPEAK TO YOUR PHYSICIAN ABOUT YOUR ORAL HEALTH
If your general practitioner is prescribing you medicine for diabetes or cardiovascular disease, he or she needs to be told about any periodontal issues. Periodontal disease can have a substantial effect on your total health. - GET ANNUAL COMPREHENSIVE ORAL CHECKUPS
For your annual oral health checkup, your dental team will use digital x-rays and other technology to check for issues. Early detection of issues will help you defend against bigger issues down the road. Plus, problems that are detected early can usually be remedied with quicker, noninvasive procedures. - TAKE ADVANTAGE OF PREVENTIVE TREATMENTS
To improve your oral health, speak to your oral hygienist about using preventive treatments to help in preventing dental problems. This might include tooth sealants, which can keep your molars from acquiring cavities, or fluoride mouth rinses to fortify your enamel. - HAVE DENTAL CLEANINGS TWO TIMES PER YEAR
In order to get rid of the plaque and tartar that will often accumulate on your teeth, you should see your dentist in Dallas, TX a minimum of two times a year to have a professional cleaning. At your cleanings, your dental practitioner will examine your gums and check for other evidence of gingivitis (the first stage of gum disease). - BRUSH A MINIMUM OF TWO TIMES DAILY
No less than two times each day, you should be cleaning your teeth for a minimum of two minutes with a fluoridated toothpaste. Make sure you aren't scrubbing too roughly with the toothbrush, because it can erode your enamel and result in a receding gum line. - FLOSS YOUR TEETH AT LEAST ONCE PER DAY
Flossing is especially important in avoiding periodontal problems. Adults and children need to floss every day to remove the plaque and debris from between your teeth. To check that you are flossing properly, ask your dentist or hygienist to demonstrate the most effective way to floss during your next visit. - TAKE CARE OF ORAL HEALTH PROBLEMS RIGHT AWAY
In cases where your dentist identifies a problem, be sure to schedule an appointment ASAP to get it addressed. If you develop any signs of an oral health problem, like persistent toothaches, red and swollen or bleeding gums, or discomfort while chewing, you need to arrange an appointment. - TALK TO YOUR DENTAL PROFESSIONAL ABOUT YOUR MEDICAL HISTORY
When visiting your dental practitioner, be frank regarding your medical history and any existing health conditions. Inform him or her if you have a family history of cardiovascular disease, blood sugar issues, or periodontal disease. You may be asked to have oral health examinations more often than once a year.
BOOST YOUR ORAL HEALTH TO ELEVATE YOUR OVERALL HEALTH
Start paying attention to your teeth and gums and support your general health. There is evidence that indicates that inflammation and microorganisms in your mouth may be harmful to your overall health, both currently and long term. Paying attention to your gums and teeth is a critical part of your general well-being, so arrange a checkup with a dental practitioner in Dallas, TX to have an oral health exam and professional cleaning. If you're looking for a terrific team of experienced dental professionals who provide preventive care and restorative treatments, visit MINT dentistry in Uptown. We would be delighted to help you and your family maintain shining, healthy smiles at our location in Dallas, TX.