Is There a Link Between Your Oral and Overall Health? You Dentist in Hammonton Explains

Your eyes may be the window to your soul, but it turns out that your mouth is the window to your overall body’s health. According to the American Dental Association, the symptoms of certain systemic diseases appear first in the mouth and poor oral health can negatively affect your entire body. While this new discovery may be concerning, simply maintaining good oral hygiene can keep your entire body healthy. In this post, your dentist in Hammonton explains the connection between your mouth and body’s wellbeing.

How Are My Mouth and Body Connected?

Your mouth and body are linked by multiple factors, but the root cause of almost every issue they share is bacteria. Your mouth is filled with countless germs. When they aren’t managed properly, it can negatively affect your overall health. Most commonly, bacteria from your mouth enters your bloodstream through inflamed or infected gums and travels across your body.

What Does This Affect?

There are specific conditions involved in this connection, including:

• Heart disease: Bacteria resulting from gum disease can travel to your arteries, restricting blood flow and raising your risk of heart attacks, strokes and other conditions.
• Respiratory issues: When bacteria are allowed to run rampant in your mouth, it can be pulled into your lungs. This results in pneumonia and other serious conditions.
• Pregnancy complications: Gum disease has been identified as a factor in premature delivery and/or low birth weight. Being pregnant can also increase your risk of gum disease or worsen the condition if you already have it.
• Lowered immune system: Diseases that lower your immune system can make you more susceptible to oral infections. Certain conditions will also first present themselves as gum disease or tooth decay, including diabetes, blood cell disorders, HIV/AIDS and osteoporosis.

How Can I Stay Healthy?

Practicing a strong oral hygiene routine can benefit your whole body. You should make sure to complete these steps:

• Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss and use fluoride mouthwash once a day
• Maintain a healthy diet with limited sugar
• Visit your dentist twice a year for cleanings and checkups
• Avoid tobacco use

While it’s important for you to maintain your dental health, you’re not alone. Reach out to your dentist if you believe you are suffering from an oral health problem.

About the Author

Dr. David Crescenzo has almost 30 years of dental experience. He is committed to keeping his skills up to date through continuing education courses, studying at the prestigious Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. If you have further questions about your oral health, he can be reached through his website or at 609-561-0058.