The Importance of Oral Health for Your Overall Well-being
Diet, exercise, and routine checkups with our primary care physician are frequently the first things that come to mind when we think about health. Nonetheless, dental health is an important—yet usually disregarded—aspect of general well-being.
Not only does the mouth provide access to food, but it also offers a window into the body’s overall health and can reflect or even influence systemic conditions. At Mona Lisa Smile Dental in Walnut Creek, we’re committed to helping you maintain optimal oral health as part of your total wellness journey.
Keeping Your Mouth Health
The majority of the microorganisms in your mouth are benign. Regular dental checkups and daily brushing and flossing help control these microorganisms. On the other hand, poor oral hygiene can allow germs to proliferate and result in mouth infections, including periodontal disease and tooth decay. These oral health problems extend beyond the mouth.
Due to the gums’ high vascularity, persistent infection or inflammation may let bacteria and their byproducts enter the circulation, which may cause inflammation in other parts of the body. That’s why it’s essential to stay proactive with your oral health—your trusted Walnut Creek dentist, Dr. Mohammad Khandaqji is here to help!
Link Between Gum Disease and Heart Health
Gum disease and cardiovascular disease have one of the best-established links. Heart attacks and strokes are more common in people with poor dental health, such as gum disease or tooth loss, according to studies.
Note: Poor dental care can contribute to systemic health risks.
There are other hypotheses on this connection:
- Blood clots and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke can result from oral germs that migrate through the bloodstream and cause inflammation and blood vessel damage.
- Chronic inflammation from gum disease may facilitate the accumulation of arterial plaque, a major cause of heart disease.
Research consistently shows a moderate link between heart and dental health, despite some studies suggesting similar risk factors, such as smoking.
Note: Smoking may influence both dental and cardiovascular health.
How Diabetes and Oral Health Affect Each Other
Diabetes and dental health are correlated in both directions. Gum disease brought on by poor oral hygiene can cause chronic inflammation and may be a factor in insulin resistance, a risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
Diabetics are more prone to infections, particularly oral infections, and gum disease can make it harder for them to control their blood sugar levels. Regular dental treatment, proper oral hygiene, and good oral care practices, including fluoridated toothpaste, can break this cycle and enhance both metabolic and oral health.
The Link Between Oral Health and Whole-Body Diseases
New studies keep finding connections between many systemic illnesses and oral health, such as:
- Rheumatoid arthritis: Gum disease’s inflammatory indicators can exacerbate joint inflammation.
- Alzheimer’s disease: Recurring mouth infections may exacerbate cognitive deterioration.
- Premature birth and low birth weight: Poor dental health throughout pregnancy has been linked to these issues.
- Respiratory infections: Oral bacteria inhaled into the lungs can result in pneumonia and other complications.
Why Oral Health Matters for Your Life and Well-Being
Your quality of life, productivity at work, and even your chances of landing a job are all impacted by your oral health in addition to your physical health. Dental conditions can result in missed work or school days, diminished self-esteem, and high treatment expenses.
Simple Steps for Lifelong Health
Protecting your oral health is simple:
- Floss frequently and brush twice a day.
- Limit sugary foods and drinks, and maintain a balanced diet
- Avoid tobacco use
- Visit us regularly for checkups and cleanings.
Making oral hygiene a priority not only protects your smile but also enhances your overall health and well-being. Keep in mind—a healthy tongue is essential to a healthy body. Schedule your next dentist appointment at Mona Lisa Smile Dental; take the next step toward total wellness!
Call us at (925) 543-0000
