Most people understand that diligent dental care, from daily brushing and flossing to periodic exams and cleanings, are the key to keeping teeth healthy and strong. What can come as a surprise to many is learning that issues such as decay, bad breath, and oral infections can not only threaten oral health but could also be key indicators of a wide range of additional illnesses and conditions. In the following guide, take a look at the relationship between oral and general health and a few ways they interact.

What’s the Connection Between Dental Care and Overall Health?

The mouth has an important role to play in the body’s condition and defenses in that it can serve as a point of entry into the digestive and respiratory systems for a wide range of contaminants, infections, and illnesses. The average mouth contains large amounts of bacteria, many of which are harmless or even beneficial, but failing to clean the teeth, tongue, and gums regularly can allow dangerous organisms into the body.

Furthermore, oral diseases often accompany major health problems, making regular trips to the dentist an essential element in any effort to protect your well-being. Gum disease, for example, has been linked to conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, respiratory disease, osteoporosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Regularly checking for the presence of oral infections and illnesses can therefore help you to detect and treat serious health concerns before they become too difficult to address.

Why Should Dental Care Factor Into Your Health Planning?

Taking care of your teeth can not only keep them healthy, attractive, and strong but can also reduce the risk of other health issues, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Additionally, bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body, causing health issues such as endocarditis, an infection of the heart’s inner lining.

Good dental care can also improve your overall well-being. When your teeth and gums are healthy, you’ll feel more comfortable and confident and experience an overall improvement in quality of life. Poor dental hygiene can cause pain and discomfort, which can lead to difficulty eating and speaking, and it can even affect sleep. Taking care of your teeth not only helps you look and feel your best, but it also reduces stress and anxiety and can help you stay positive and motivated.

Keep your teeth and gums in great shape and have an eye on your overall health when you book an appointment with Charles P. Debbane, DDS. Serving clients throughout Hamilton, OH, for over 20 years, this trusted family dentist offers an extensive range of dental care services using the latest medical knowledge and procedures to help you detect potential health issues. Call (513) 887-6654 to make an appointment or to discuss your oral health concerns, and visit them online to learn more.