The Poor Oral Health and Overall Health Connection

People with poor oral health are generally unhealthy overall. In fact, studies indicate that gum disease contributes to overall health making good oral hygiene essential.

Brushing twice and flossing once each day along with a healthy diet and regular checkups will go a long way in preventing gum disease and tooth decay, but sometimes even the most careful people have to deal with cavities and gingivitis.

What’s the Connection Between Poor Oral Health and Overall Health?

According to Libertyville Dental Associates, gum disease happens when bacteria and plaque make their way in between the gum line and the bone surrounding your teeth. Brushing and flossing is essential, but sometimes it’s impossible to clean properly, especially if you have old dental restorations, and/or chips and cracks in teeth.

Gingivitis and the more serious periodontal disease are present in people with heart problems and in people who have experienced a stroke. People with Alzheimer’s disease are twice as likely to suffer from periodontitis as people who don’t have gum disease.

Symptoms of Gum Disease

Gum disease is a leading factor in patients who have suffered heart attacks and in people who have diabetes. No one can pinpoint why diabetics are prone to gingivitis and the more serious periodontal disease. Some experts believe that gum disease might also lead to diabetes.

What You Can Do About Oral and Overall Health

Keeping teeth and gums clean is vital for oral and overall health. Be sure to brush your tongue and pay close attention to your molars. Tooth decay and bacteria love to hide in the cracks and crevices in your back teeth.

Change your toothbrush when it starts to look worn and don’t forget to keep it clean and dry. Bacteria love to hide in moist toothbrushes.

Flossing is an essential part of good oral hygiene. If you are unsure how to floss properly, talk to a team member from Libertyville Dental Associates who can show you how. If you can’t get to the dentist Google it and watch a video, just be sure a dentist recommends it.

You Are What You Eat

Diet plays a huge roll in oral and overall health. If you are loading up on sugar, starches, and junk food, your teeth and gums will pay the price. Eat lots of veggies and fruit and load up on protein and calcium for strong teeth.

Drink plenty of water and enjoy dairy foods. Cheese is excellent and works great on teeth after a meal.

Dental Checkups for Oral and Overall Health

If you aren’t seeing Libertyville Dental Associates regularly, it’s time to schedule an appointment. Missed dental checkups result in less conservative procedures.

Cavities and gum disease won’t get better on their own. A small filling could turn into root canal therapy and a dental crown might result in gingivitis or periodontal disease.

Regular checkups are essential, book online and schedule your bi annual dental examination with Libertyville Dental Associates today.