How Oral Care Affects Your Overall Health
Your teeth help you smile, eat, and communicate with others, so it’s no wonder that your oral health has a significant impact on your overall health! Here are just a few ways that the state of your dental health can affect your entire body.
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Digestion
Your mouth plays a major role in the first step of the digestive process. Teeth help tear apart and grind food down, while saliva kickstarts the chemical processes necessary for your body to break down your food. If you have a lot of plaque and bad bacteria in your mouth, you’re running the risk for infection every time you swallow your food. Consistent brushing and flossing is the best way to protect your digestive system from the harmful bacteria in your mouth.
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Saliva
Saliva not only helps with the digestive process, but it continually and naturally wicks bacteria off of the surface of your teeth. It is also a powerful way to measure the amount of cortisol, or stress hormone, in your body, as well as the presence of drugs and toxins. Too much bacteria in your mouth, alcohol, taking certain medications, some autoimmune disorders, and tobacco use are just some of the things that cause decreased saliva production. Mouth dryness, or xerostomia, can lead to tooth decay and eventual tooth loss.
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Heart Health
Did you know that poor oral hygiene can contribute to heart disease? Scientists have found that the bacteria in your mouth release toxins that can line artery walls and cause heart issues. It’s crucial to brush and floss away this bacteria before it enters your bloodstream.
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Immunity
No matter where in your body, bacteria overgrowth leads to infection. Not taking active care to curb the bacteria in your mouth means you’re constantly putting your body through stress and at risk for developing certain diseases. Moreover, if you find that you are taking great care of your teeth and gums, but notice that you are still showing signs of plaque and gingivitis, you may have an ailment that has lowered your body’s natural immune response and it’s time to see a doctor about it.
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Reproduction
Women who don’t take good care of their teeth and gums are more prone to deliver babies prematurely and/or with low birth weights. Preventing tooth decay is especially important for women who are trying to get pregnant.
Come Visit Us Every 6 Months!
Visiting Texas Dental twice a year doesn’t just promote healthy teeth; we can help detect and prevent more serious conditions that can affect your overall health. Our expert team is passionate about preventive care and is here to encourage you and your family to properly care for your oral health. Contact us to schedule dental appointments for your whole family today!
