Research іs uncovering an increasingly clear correlation between oral health and serious general health conditions, like gum disease, and general inflammation that leads tо heart disease, stroke оr diabetes. For instance, bacteria from gum disease can enter your bloodstream and trigger chronic inflammation which contributes tо heart attacks, strokes and diabetes.
Finding a qualified and compassionate dental professional іs crucial for maintaining optimal oral health. Finest Dentists іn Newmarket can provide expert care and guidance tо help you achieve and maintain a healthy smile.
Heart and Lungs
The heart and lungs are two of the body’s most essential organs, working in concert to circulate oxygen throughout and rid it of carbon dioxide waste. Since their mutual dependency means conditions affecting one can drastically impact both organs. Studies have linked oral bacteria entering the bloodstream with cardiovascular diseases, out-of-control diabetes, respiratory illnesses, preterm births with low birth weights and even chronic bad breath (halitosis).
Good oral hygiene practices help protect against tooth decay, gum disease and halitosis as well as improve digestion by breaking down food for proper absorption into your system.
Achieving optimal dental health also enhances self-esteem and social interactions – so be sure to brush, floss and visit the dentist on a regular basis!
Immune System
The mouth serves as the gateway to major organs in the body, and dental conditions have an immense impact on overall health. Bacteria that accumulate in gum disease or tooth decay, for instance, may enter bloodstream, travel to various parts of body and cause inflammation and illness.
Malnutrition – both undernutrition and overnutrition – has an adverse impact on oral health, with undernutrition often the result of poor dental hygiene and chronic dental pain. When teeth are missing or broken it can make eating harder so less food may be eaten, leading to decreased intake and thus less nutrition consumed than is necessary. As oral healthcare providers, we’re well suited to educating patients about the connection between their mouth and body and healthy lifestyle behaviors, such as diet low in ultra-processed foods, adequate hydration levels, stress reduction techniques, restful sleep patterns and daily physical activity – behaviors which help lower chronic disease risks while strengthening immunity systems.
Mental Health
A healthy mouth can make eating, speaking, breathing and smiling easier without experiencing discomfort or embarrassment – supporting both work and social activities.
Oral diseases are largely preventable, yet remain a significant global health burden, particularly in lower and middle income countries. They include dental caries (tooth decay), periodontal disease, tooth loss, oral cancer as well as oro-dental trauma such as cleft lip/palate and noma.
These conditions are caused by lifestyle factors like sugar consumption, tobacco and alcohol use and socioeconomic and environmental determinants. Preventable by daily brushing and flossing as well as regular visits to a dentist for X-rays and exams.
Medical research has found that heart disease and diabetes often first manifest themselves through signs in the mouth such as swollen gums or bleeding lesions – oral health should therefore be integrated into primary healthcare and universal coverage programs so everyone has equal access to healthy mouths.
Weight
Leaving bacteria untreated, they can spread throughout your body causing inflammation that leads to serious consequences, including heart disease, diabetes and pregnancy complications such as low birth weight. Maintaining healthy teeth and gums also has the added bonus of strengthening your immune system, making it easier to combat any illnesses that might come your way. Malnutrition has an adverse impact on oral health, leading to dental caries, periodontal (gum) diseases, tooth loss and other oral conditions such as cleft lips/palate syndrome or noma (a severe gangrenous condition often seen among children).
Studies show that people with good oral health tend to lead healthier lifestyles. Therefore, make sure to brush and floss regularly and visit your dentist for regular checkups as this will not only benefit your smile but also boost overall health. In addition, be sure to eat a balanced diet, avoid smoking and drinking excessive alcohol consumption for best results.
