Dental Health: How It Influences Your Total Physical Health

TOOTH AND GUM ISSUES HAVE THE POTENTIAL TO AFFECT MORE THAN YOUR MOUTH

Each organ in the human body influences the others, so problems in different locations can have a much wider effect. In this post, our team at MINT dentistry in Conroe goes over the connections between your dental and oral health and your wider physical health. A multitude of research studies are in progress across the globe that are seeking to figure out how oral health influences general health, as well as how overall health can affect oral health. Imperfect oral health (in particular periodontal disease) can increase your likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease, make it tougher to regulate blood glucose, and, if you are expecting, impact the infant's health. Each of these are excellent reasons to make sure you establish a good oral health regimen at home and plan regular visits with a dental practitioner in Conroe, TX.

HOW CAN YOUR TEETH AND GUMS HAVE CONSEQUENCES FOR YOUR GENERAL HEALTH?
The mouth acts as a portal to the heart, stomach, and other vital organs. It's no surprise that an infection or inflammation in the mouth can gradually spread to different areas of the body. Here are the top four most serious conditions that can be affected by your oral health:

• PREGNANCY ISSUES
  The shifts in hormones during gestation can put an expecting mother at higher risk for getting periodontal disease. Gestational gingivitis causes red, swollen gums that tend to bleed. Having advanced periodontal disease (periodontitis) while expecting has been tied to early birth and low birth weight. For this reason, it's quite important for women to brush and floss every day to steer clear of gum disease and other oral health concerns.
• DEMENTIA
  Scientists are exploring the connection between good oral health and greater cognitive function in older patients. In individuals with Alzheimer's disease, there is a possible correlation to unsatisfactory oral health. Dementia and impaired cognitive function frequently lead to more tooth and gum problems, presumably because the person has trouble maintaining his or her home oral care regimen.
• CORONARY PROBLEMS
  Studies have found evidence that suggests that swelling in the mouth (typically from periodontal disease) can elevate a person's likelihood of having a myocardial infarction (heart attack) or stroke. Studies are being conducted to examine the theory that oral bacteria may cause inflammation in the vascular system.
• DIABETES
  People with diabetes need to pay particular attention to the condition of their gums to help regulate their blood sugar levels. Lingering or untreated periodontal disease could make it more challenging for your body to control blood sugar. In times when you have trouble managing your blood sugar, set up a checkup with a dental practitioner in Conroe, TX to find out if periodontal disease is part of your issue.

IMPORTANT ORAL HYGIENE STEPS
There are numerous things you can do to improve or keep up your oral health and, in turn, your general health. These begin with a diligent oral hygiene system at home and visiting your dental practitioner in Conroe, TX regularly.

• TEND TO ORAL HEALTH ISSUES PROMPTLY
  In cases where your dentist discovers an issue, it's key to schedule an appointment ASAP to get it taken care of. If you develop any signs of an oral health issue, such as chronic toothaches, inflamed or bleeding gums, or discomfort while chewing, you should arrange an exam.
• THINK ABOUT PREVENTIVE OPTIONS
  To enhance your oral health, talk to your hygienist about having preventive options to assist in defending against dental problems. This may include tooth sealants, which will defend your molars from acquiring cavities, or fluoride mouth rinses to strengthen your enamel.
• HAVE YEARLY ORAL ASSESSMENTS
  For your yearly oral health examination, your dental team will use digital radiography and other diagnostic technology to look for concerns. Early management of issues will help you defend against worse issues down the road. In addition, issues that are detected early can typically be fixed with simpler, noninvasive treatments.
• BRUSH NO LESS THAN TWICE DAILY
  At minimum twice per day, you ought to be brushing your teeth for at least two minutes with a fluoridated toothpaste. Make sure you aren't scrubbing too hard with the toothbrush, as this can wear down your enamel and result in receding gums.
• INFORM YOUR PHYSICIAN ABOUT YOUR ORAL HEALTH
  If your usual physician is treating you for diabetes or cardiovascular disease, he or she needs to be told about any oral health issues. Periodontal disease can have a substantial effect on your general health.
• SPEAK TO YOUR DENTAL PROFESSIONAL ABOUT YOUR MEDICAL HISTORY
  When speaking to your dentist, be frank regarding your medical history and any current conditions. Inform him or her if you have any relatives with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or periodontal disease. You may be encouraged to receive oral health evaluations more often than one time per year.
• FLOSS AT LEAST ONCE PER DAY
  Flossing is particularly important in preventing periodontal issues. You need to floss every day to eliminate the plaque and debris from the spaces between your teeth. To make sure you are flossing properly, ask your dentist or hygienist to demonstrate the most effective way to floss during your next visit.
• GET DENTAL CLEANINGS TWO TIMES PER YEAR
  In order to get rid of the plaque and tartar that can build up on your teeth, you should visit a dentist in Conroe, TX no less than twice per year to get a professional cleaning. During these cleanings, your hygienist will check your gum tissue and check for other signs of gingivitis (the beginning stage of periodontitis).

BOOST YOUR DENTAL HEALTH TO ENHANCE YOUR GENERAL WELLBEING
Begin taking care of your oral health and improve your overall health. Researchers have evidence to suggest that inflammation and germs in your mouth could be harmful to your general health, both currently and over time. Paying attention to your mouth is a critical part of your overall wellness, so plan an appointment with a dental practitioner in Conroe, TX to get an oral health exam and professional cleaning. If you need a distinguished team of skilled dental professionals who are able to give preventive care and restorative treatments, visit MINT dentistry in Conroe. We would be pleased to help your whole family attain shining, healthy teeth at our practice in Conroe, TX.