Visit your dentist every six months for exams and cleanings. Brush your teeth twice daily and floss regularly. These habits all play their part in preserving oral hygiene. However, while most people inherently understand how this kind of routine lowers the risk of cavities, periodontal disease, and other dental problems, they can be more surprised to learn of their positive impact on other aspects of one’s health. If you have been looking for more reasons to prioritize your teeth and gums, here is a closer look at the connection between dental and overall wellness. 

The Link Between Poor Oral Hygiene & Disease

Cancer

Having gum disease introduces harmful pathogens into the body, which, in turn, increase a person’s risk of developing lung, pancreatic, esophageal, colon, and oral cancers. When the body fights gum disease, increased inflammation can occur and promote faster tumor growth.  

Heart Health

The oral bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease can wind up traveling through your tissues to the bloodstream. From there, it can leak into the cardiovascular system, inflaming arteries and increasing one’s likelihood of a heart attack or stroke.

Arthritis

As oral pathogens travel through your body, they may also trigger the development of arthritis—a condition characterized by chronic inflammation of the joints. In addition to being painful, this condition can limit your mobility.

Diabetes

If gum disease is not treated by a dentist, the condition may introduce bacteria into the body that attack the pancreas. If, in the process, it develops problems producing insulin—a hormone responsible for processing sugar—diabetes can develop.

Premature Birth

Pregnant women have heightened hormone levels which can contribute to inflammation of the gum tissue. Without proper hygiene and care from a dentist, it can lead to gum disease, leaving the mother and her baby vulnerable to bacteria that may be responsible for premature birth, low birth weight, and other prenatal health issues.

Dementia

Although the exact cause of dementia—a condition characterized by chronic cognitive decline and memory loss—is unknown, it may be linked to poor oral health. Specifically, people with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia have been found to also have high amounts of the same bacteria that are responsible for gum disease.

MYPERIOPATH Testing

Our Dental office offers MyPerioPath to provide you with knowledge of the exact types of bacteria (pathogens) your mouth is harboring and then ability to treat it specifically.  For further information, https://www.oraldna.com/myPerioPath.html.

To ensure an overall sense of wellness, don’t neglect your teeth and gums. If you need help, look to Peter A. McIntyre, DDS, PC, as have many other residents of Colorado Springs, CO. At this clinic, patients know they can expect stress-free, comfortable, and effective dental care. From routine cleanings to advanced treatments, these skilled dentists and their team will help safeguard your smile from dangerous bacteria. To learn more about the services offered, visit the office online. For appointments, call (719) 475-2511.