Many of us will have made New Year’s resolutions to perhaps exercise more frequently and to eat more healthily, but did you know having good dental health can help? In fact your mouth is a ‘window’ to the rest of your body, and if you neglect it you are more at risk of developing general health problems.
Clinical studies have linked poor oral health with many general health conditions including heart disease, strokes, diabetes and some cancers. Pregnant women with advanced gum disease (periodontal disease) are more at risk of having premature or low birth weight babies.
What Happens if You Fail to Brush and Floss?
Your mouth contains many different types of bacteria. Regular brushing and flossing helps keep their numbers under control, but if you neglect your oral health then they will quickly multiply and will begin infecting and inflaming your gums as you gradually develop gum disease, a serious inflammatory condition that can ultimately lead to tooth loss.
How Does This Affect General Health?
Gum disease weakens and destroys gum tissue and your gums will begin to bleed more easily, enabling bacteria from your mouth to get into your bloodstream. From there they can travel around your body, causing more inflammation as your body tries to fight the infection. This inflammatory response has the potential to cause serious harm to your general health, increasing your chances of developing health problems while existing diseases such as diabetes may worsen.
Protect Your Health with Good Preventative Dental Care
The good news is that Tindale Dental Centre is easy and cost-effective. Once your teeth and gums are in good condition it is simple to maintain them with regular check-ups and cleanings, combined with good oral care at home. Twice daily brushing and once-a-day flossing takes less than ten minutes and you’ll also benefit from having an attractive and well-maintained smile.
