Many people know that maintaining their oral health will prevent bad breath, cavities, and other dental issues as they age. However, keeping up with positive dental habits can also directly affect other parts of your body. If you've been putting off your next dentist appointment, learn more about why this visit is important for your overall health below.

Why You Should Maintain Your Oral Health

1. Gum Disease

Poor oral health habits, such as not brushing or flossing regularly, will allow plaque to build up near your gum line. This invites bacteria to grow between your gums and teeth, forming gingivitis that can advance into periodontitis. Unfortunately, this more severe form of gum disease can cause tissue, tooth, and other bone loss. Additionally, continually fighting gum disease also puts a strain on your immune system, lowering your defenses to other illnesses.

2. Endocarditis & Heart Disease

Bacteria from your mouth can enter your bloodstream through invasive dental treatments, or with simple brushing and flossing if you have gum disease. For immunocompromised individuals, this oral bacteria in the blood can cause infections to develop in other parts of the body. Two prime examples of this are endocarditis, where the inner lining of the heart becomes infected, and cardiovascular disease, where inflammation and infection can cause clogged arteries and stroke.

3. Diabetes

Diabetes reduces the body's resistance to infection, making gum disease a frequent affliction for people with this condition. Research also shows that people with gum disease struggle more with regulating their blood sugar levels. Consequently, regularly scheduled dentist appointments will improve your diabetes control.

4. Preterm Birth

It’s estimated that oral infections cause up to 18% of preterm births , as toxins from oral bacteria reach the placenta and interfere with the development of the fetus. This can cause the mother to produce labor-inducing hormones too quickly, resulting in premature birth.

If you need to see a dentist, the team at Genovese Dental in Cottleville, MO, will provide superior care. They’ve offered affordable and convenient pediatric, cosmetic, and preventative dental services to patients for over 30 years, and they’ll create an individualized care plan so you can achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. To schedule a consultation, call (636) 928-4090. To learn more about their services, visit their website.