When you have concerns about your general health, you see a physician. When you have concerns about your smile, you see a dentist. Given this distinct separation, it’s easy to think that the quality of your teeth and gums has no direct relation to the rest of your body. However, research continues to reveal that oral health is linked to many other potential medical issues. To help illustrate this link, here are a few interesting ways the mouth-body connection can affect your overall wellness.

Which General Health Problems Are Linked to Poor Dental Care?

Pneumonia

Without regular brushing, flossing, and teeth cleanings from a dentist, people can develop high amounts of oral bacteria in the mouth. In addition to causing gum disease and tooth decay, this oral bacteria can be inhaled and travel throughout the respiratory system. When this occurs, the germs may find their way into the lungs and cause an infection, known as pneumonia.

Diabetes

Proper dental care is extremely important for those with diabetes, as this chronic condition can suppress overall immune health. Specifically, when the body is burdened by high blood sugars, the immune system faces more difficulty when fighting off infections—including those that cause gum disease and other oral health issues. High blood sugar can also increase dry mouth, which in turn, may contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. In undiagnosed individuals, gum disease and other stubborn oral infections can be signs of diabetes.  

Heart Disease

Although there is not yet a proven connection, the American Academy of Periodontology suggests that the inflammation caused by gum disease may place stress on the cardiovascular system. As a result, people with gum disease have a higher risk of developing heart disease—a chronic condition in which blood vessel damage restricts proper blood flow to the heart. If left untreated, this problem can increase an individual’s risk of having a heart attack or stroke.

Dementia

Ongoing research has established a potential link between poor oral health and dementia—a disease characterized by progressive deterioration of the brain and gradual cognitive decline. While the exact relationship between these conditions remains unclear, researchers found oral bacteria in the brains of those with dementia. This suggests that oral bacteria may enter the bloodstream and travel up to the brain.

When it comes to staying healthy, these medical risks demonstrate just how important it is to care for both your body and your mouth. That’s why Wheeler Family Dental is committed to providing patients with comprehensive dental care services in Chesterfield, MO. Serving patients of all ages, this local dentist is equipped to address everything from preventive care to restorative treatment. Whatever the state of your oral health, you can also count on their dentists and hygienists to provide gentle care to protect and restore your smile in the most comfortable way possible. To learn more about their services, visit this general dentistry provider online. To schedule appointments, call (314) 576-3737.