Routine dentist visits are a huge part of maintaining your oral health, but neglecting to go can affect your overall health, as well. Oral conditions can have negative repercussions throughout your body, leading to a decline in your general well-being. Below are a few ways that neglecting your oral health can lead to poor general health.

How Your Dental Health Affects Your Overall Health

1. Cardiovascular Disease

Gum disease can lead to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases like stroke and heart attack. The inflammation caused by periodontal disease puts a strain on your cardiovascular system, which can make you up to three times more likely to experience a heart attack or stroke.

2. Diabetes

Periodontal disease also affects your health if you have diabetes. Infected gums can increase your blood sugar levels and make diabetes harder to control. It also increases the risk that you’ll experience diabetic complications as a result of periodontal disease.

3. Infection

Poor dental health leads to cavities, and if left untreated, they can form into abscesses. An abscess is a pocket that forms around the root of your tooth, causing swelling and discomfort. If you don’t let a dentist treat the infection, it can spread to other parts of the body and may eventually lead to sepsis.

4. Mental Health

Dental flaws like staining, misalignments, visible cavities, and receding gums can have a negative impact on your mental health. It can lead to stress, insecurity, and becoming withdrawn or reserved around friends, family, and new people. Along with improved hygiene, treatments like teeth whitening, veneers, fillings, or clear aligners will give you a pleasing smile.

An experienced dentist will keep your oral and general health in good condition. Hill Country Dental Associates in Kerrville, TX, boasts a large team of dentists with decades of combined experience. They offer treatments for gum disease, cavities, and abscesses. Cosmetic care like teeth whitening is also available. They accept patients of all ages, offer sedation dentistry, and emphasize prevention. Learn about their services online, and schedule an appointment by calling (830) 257-3000.