While you might not think visits to see your dentist are essential parts of maintaining your overall health, oral wellness has more of an impact on the entire body than most people realize. Many medical conditions are brought on by a variety of factors, including genetics and lifestyle habits. Yet, your oral health is largely within your control; caring for your teeth and gums will help you avoid the conditions described below. 

How Oral Health Can Impact the Entire Body

1. Cardiovascular Disease

While gum disease starts in the mouth, it could have body-wide implications. When plaque forms, it kickstarts an inflammatory response in the gums. Left untreated by a dentist, this long-term inflammation can contribute to a number of different medical conditions, one of which is atherosclerosis. This is the buildup of plaque within the arteries and is a common precursor to heart disease. In fact, individuals with gum disease have two to three times the risk of having a cardiovascular issue, including a heart attack or stroke.  

2. Dementia

Recently, scientists discovered that toxic enzymes secreted by the gum disease bacteria were found in the majority of patients with Alzheimer’s disease. While it hasn’t yet been determined if gum disease is a definitive cause of this form of dementia, the link is noteworthy, as it suggests it could play a role in the development or progression of the disease. In animal studies, the bacteria have demonstrated the ability to travel from the mouth to the brain and destroy brain cells.

3. Respiratory Infections

Visiting the dentist could help you keep issues like bronchitis and pneumonia at bay. Research shows that gum disease could increase the risk of respiratory infections, including serious conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This is because bacteria from the gums can enter the respiratory tract, which may contribute to the development of respiratory diseases.

While considering the link between dental health and full-body wellness may seem overwhelming, the good news is that oral conditions like gum disease are largely preventable and treatable with the help of Dental Arts. As a family-oriented dental practice in Huntington Station, NY, this office is led by experienced dentist Dr. Preetika Gupta. Both Dr. Gupta and her team aim to make patients in Suffolk and Nassau counties feel as comfortable as possible. Explore their full list of services online, or call (631) 591-9200 to schedule an appointment.