Most of us take the health of our teeth, mouth and gums for granted, which can be a costly mistake. Oral health can have psychological and physical impacts on us, influencing our speech, appearance and ability to eat. Gum disease and missing teeth can cause problems with our self esteem and confidence, and oral health is closely connected to our overall health. Below, you will learn about some of the conditions that can affect the health of your mouth. Visit www.centralvalleydentist.com for more information.
Periodontitis
If we don’t get regular checkups or clean our teeth regularly, our oral health can be put at risk. The bacteria in our mouths normally live in balance, and poor oral care can cause that balance to shift, causing periodontitis. The medicines and procedures used to treat oral infections can also upset the bacterial balance, which can force some of those bacteria into the bloodstream and cause problems throughout the body.
The Connection Between Oral and Overall Health
Medical studies have established a link between the health of the mouth and of the rest of the body. Listed below are some conditions which can be influenced by oral health.
* Alzheimer’s disease
* Endocarditis
* Diabetes
* HIV or AIDS
* Heart Disease
* Osteoporosis
Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative condition of the brain, and may be influenced in part by oral inflammation. Diabetes is a metabolic condition, which can be brought about by periodontitis’ effect on insulin production. Oral bacteria that enter the bloodstream due to poor oral care can cause heart disease and endocarditis. With HIV and AIDS, the condition can cause problems with oral health, which can exacerbate the effects of the disease.
Protecting Your Oral Health
Poor oral care can not only cause gum disease and tooth loss, but it can severely affect your health and quality of life. Your Family Dentist Stockton CA will recommend that you brush at least twice a day and floss after every meal, and get regular checkups. If you have been diagnosed with periodontitis, you should continue to receive follow-up care from Dr. Rujul G. Parikh D.D.S. to treat the disease before it becomes more serious.
