It’s common knowledge that poor oral care habits can lead to dental problems such as gingivitis or tooth decay. But did you know it can also have a significant impact on your overall health and wellness? Chinook Family Dentistry in Anchorage, AK, is the area’s leading dental clinic, providing a comprehensive range of general and cosmetic procedures, from routine teeth cleaning to dental implants, to improve your smile. Below, the caring dentists discuss a few of the ways dental care can affect your well-being.

3 Ways Poor Dental Care Affects Your Health

1. Diabetic Complications

Patients with diabetes are more prone to developing periodontal disease, which makes proper dental care, such as brushing and flossing twice a day, quite important. Not only will gum disease worsen diabetes symptoms, but it can also make it more difficult to control your blood sugar levels.

2. Respiratory Infections

When oral bacteria travel from your mouth to your lungs, they can cause the lung tissue to become inflamed. This can increase your risk of pneumonia and lung infections. It can also make pre-existing respiratory conditions much worse. The most effective way to prevent this is by brushing your teeth twice a day to remove the harmful bacteria.

3. Heart Disease

In addition to respiratory infections, the harmful bacteria from gum disease can enter the bloodstream and lead to atherosclerosis, which is the hardening of the arteries. When plaque forms in the arteries, it blocks blood from flowing through the body. This is known as heart disease, which is one of the leading causes of death in the United States.

To help maintain proper oral hygiene and overall health, see a dentist twice a year for regular teeth cleanings. If you’re looking for a dentist in Anchorage, AK, to help maintain your smile, trust the professionals at Chinook Family Dentistry. Call (907) 272-8422 to schedule an appointment today, and learn more about the team and their services by visiting their website.