Connection Between Oral Health and Systemic Health
How Your Oral Health Reflects Systemic Health
Your oral health is an accurate representation of your overall health. Regular dental exams are meant to identify and treat developing health problems that may not seem directly related to how you take care of your teeth. Our Madison dentists at Total Care Dental keep tabs on your teeth, gums and overall well-being.
Common Oral Symptoms That Point to Systemic Issues
Sudden changes in your mouth may be signs of underlying medical problems. Keep an eye out for:
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum sores or inflammation
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Loose teeth
- Discoloration in teeth or gums
- Jaw pain or nerve discomfort
If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with Total Care Dental in Madison, WI. Our highly trained dentists will use the latest dental technology to determine the cause of your symptoms. Even if the changes in your oral health aren’t a sign of an underlying medical condition, you will want treatment right away.
Risks Associated With Oral Health and System Health
Oral health was identified as one of the 10 leading overall health indicators. This isn’t surprising considering the mouth is the gateway to the body. Oral health is vital to general health.
Poor oral health can be a sign of the following health issues and more:
- Heart disease
- Alzheimer's
- Diabetes
- Osteoporosis
- Premature births
- Rheumatoid arthritis
Oral Health is Strongly Linked to Heart Disease
Research has found a strong connection between oral health, heart disease and stroke. Many oral health diseases and factors can contribute to poor heart health. Dental plaque has been found to affect heart and lung health. Bacteria lodges inside blood vessels, eventually causing dangerous blockages. There is a strong link between healthy gums and a healthy heart. Schedule an appointment with our Madison dentists today to ensure your oral health is in top shape.
Oral Health is Directly Linked to Bone Health
Bone health and osteoporosis have been linked to poor oral health. Likewise, developing osteoporosis can harm your teeth. Osteoporosis can lead to tooth loss due to declining bone density, causing your teeth’s structure to weaken. Luckily, osteoporosis is highly preventable. One of the first steps you should take is prioritizing your oral health.
The Connection Between Oral Health and Alzheimer's
A recent breakthrough in the connection between oral health and systemic health found a strong connection between oral disease, poor oral health and the development of Alzheimer’s. This discovery could provide easy steps to lower your risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Check your oral health with our experienced dentists at Total Care Dental.
Diabetes and Gum Disease
Poor oral health may increase your risk of diabetes, and having diabetes can take a toll on your oral health. Diabetics are prone to several oral health conditions, but most prominently periodontal disease or gum disease. Gum disease is commonly developed by type 1 and type 2 diabetics, and is often referred to as the sixth complication of the disease.
If you have diabetes, contact our team at Total Care Dental immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Red, swollen and sore gums
- Gums that bleed easily
- Loose teeth
- Bad breath
- Changes in alignment of teeth
Patients with diabetes also often suffer from dry mouth. On top of the discomfort, a dry mouth adds to your risk of developing gum disease. If you are suffering from dry mouth, reach out to our team of educated dentists as there are treatments for this available!
Oral Health and Your Immune System
Poor oral health is linked to numerous chronic diseases and immune health. Tooth decay breaks down your teeth and weakens your immune system. Your mouth is the gateway to the rest of your body. Bacteria building on your teeth and gums can travel to the rest of your body and cause infections. Avoid taking unnecessary and lengthy trips to urgent care and schedule a dental checkup with our reputable team today!
Healthy Teeth Promote a Healthy Body
Poor oral hygiene can exacerbate these medical conditions. Bacterial infections in the gum and teeth can directly enter the bloodstream and cause high blood pressure, bone loss and inflammation elsewhere in the body. Learn more about the health risks of poor oral hygiene.
Regular dental appointments with the expert dentists at TCD in Madison, WI will keep your teeth clean and healthy. Our preventative services include oral cancer screenings. With our help, you can keep your oral and overall health in check.
The Importance of Oral Hygiene for Your Health
Wondering what steps you can take to better your oral and overall health? Keep up with your daily oral hygiene routine and schedule regular checkups at Total Care Dental. All you have to take care of is daily brushing, flossing and rinsing, and we’ll take care of the rest. This includes professional cleaning and examinations. Prioritize your oral hygiene and you’ll be on your way to better overall health!
Contact Total Care Dental to schedule dentistry appointments in Madison.
