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Poor oral health has been linked to heart disease, stroke, and other health problems. By changing certain habits, you can improve the health of your mouth, and teeth, and lessen your risk of developing health complications. Studies suggest that periodontitis is associated with diabetes, heart disease, and pneumonia, among other diseases. Some diseases are also associated with an increased risk of infections, such as diabetes which increases the risk of gingival and periodontal inflammation and infections. When there is an underlying condition in play, your dentist may be able to draw an important connection between your oral health and your overall health. Neglecting your oral health can open the door to all sorts of health problems. Oral Health and Heart Disease Poor dental hygiene can cause a host of problems outside your mouth - including your heart. Medical research has uncovered a definitive link between heart disease and certain kinds of oral infections such as periodontal disease. Some have even suggested that gum disease may be as dangerous as, or more dangerous than other factors such as tobacco use. In other words, infections and harmful bacteria that are found in your mouth can spread through the bloodstream to your liver. Your liver produces harmful proteins that can lead to systemic cardiac problems, which is why it is critical to practice good oral hygiene to keep infections at bay - including brushing, flossing and rinsing every day for proper dental health care. Diabetes and Oral Health Bleeding gums, dry mouth, fungal infections and cavities are all signs that might be a clue as to a serious health issue: diabetes. These symptoms can also suggest other serious conditions such as HIV and leukemia. Studies show that diabetics are more susceptible to the development of oral infections and periodontal disease. Oral infections appear to be more severe in diabetic patients than non-diabetic patients because they may experience diminished salivary flow and a burning sensation of the mouth or tongue which can lead to a higher incidence of tooth decay. If you are a diabetic it is important to control your blood sugar levels, otherwise there is a tendency for increased oral health problems, especially gum recession. Diabetics who receive proper dental care and control their insulin stand a better change of avoiding gum disease. In addition, they should maintain proper dental health care in order to prevent mouth and gum infections including periodontal disease, which require immediate attention. To keep your teeth and gums strong, diabetic patients should be aware of their blood sugar levels and have their triglyceride and cholesterol levels checked regularly. These may be a direct correlation in the development of periodontal disease. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, there is a significant relationship between gum disease and health complications such as diabetes. Since most people have regular oral examinations, their dentist may be the first to diagnose a health problem in its early stages. Visiting your dentist in Grosse Pointe regularly helps in maintaining the health of your mouth and allows your dentist to watch for unusual developments that may point to other health issues.
Dr. Mary Sue Stonisch of Faircourt Dental Smile Enhancement Studio is a leading Grosse Pointe dentist. Providing the best cosmetic and aesthetic dentistry that the Grosse Pointe area has to offer, Dr. Stonisch is qualified to handle any dental need for patients of every age including implants, saliva testing and in Grosse Pointe.
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