You may be surprised to find out that taking care of your teeth doesn’t only affect your mouth! Your oral health affects many different aspects of your health, which is another reason why taking care of your smile is extremely important. Following are some health problems you may be more at risk of if you don’t take care of your dental health.



Heart Disease

Even though the connection between gum disease and heart health is still being researched, statistics have shown that if an individual has gum disease, they are more likely to also suffer from heart disease. An array of infections, bacteria, and other dangerous particles can enter through your mouth and into your bloodstream, therefore causing potential infection and inflammation in other parts of your body.

Some studies have even shown that those with gum disease are more likely to have a heart attack or stroke.

Diabetes

Some studies have shown that there is a link between diabetes and gum disease as well. When diabetes is treated, the gum disease tends to improve, and when gum disease is treated, there isn’t as high of a need for insulin. If you suffer from diabetes, treating your gum disease will be much harder, and vice-versa.

If diabetes isn’t controlled, it can lead to higher blood sugar in the mouth, which then leads to a growth in bacteria and a higher risk of gum disease. People with diabetes are therefore extra susceptible to gum disease.

Pregnancy and Infertility

Having good oral hygiene is important for all individuals, but especially expectant mothers. A pregnant woman experiences a lot of hormonal changes, which can leave her at a higher risk of infection, including gingivitis and periodontitis. These oral infections can increase the chances of pregnancy complications, with low birth weight and premature birth being two commonly seen conditions.

Respiratory Issues

Since the mouth is an easy avenue for bacteria to enter through, if bacteria is inhaled from infected gums or teeth over a long period of time, it’s possible that it could lead to an infection in the lungs. This can lead to a slew of respiratory issues such as pneumonia. Gum disease has also been known to worsen existing lung diseases such as COPD and asthma.

This is likely due to the fact that inflammation in the gums can lead to inflammation in the airways, therefore leading to worse respiratory symptoms and damage.

Make Your Dental Appointment Today

Keeping your teeth, gums, and mouth as healthy as possible is easiest when you make bi-annual appointments with Stephens Dentistry. Our dentists are expertly educated and trained not only to clean your teeth to be in tip-top shape, but to notice the warning signs of gum disease and other oral diseases.

Together, we can work to improve your oral health, therefore improving your overall health. For an Evanston dental clinic that will help you achieve ultimate oral health, contact us today.

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