Tooth decay and gum disease can have far-reaching effects on a person’s quality of life. Signs of infection or disease may appear in your mouth before manifesting elsewhere in your body. Regrettably, you might not know this until you deal with life-threatening health issues. For this reason, maintaining good oral and general health requires a commitment to preventative measures like frequent dental checkups.
The Unexpected Links Between Oral Health and Overall Well-Being
Good oral health from this website or any other practice has far-reaching advantages, far beyond just your mouth. Furthermore, it lowers healthcare expenses and boosts the quality of life.
A Healthier Heart
The state of one’s dentition and gums is rarely mentioned in discussions of one’s cardiovascular health, but it is important. Infections of the heart’s inner lining, or endocarditis, are avoided when patients practice excellent oral hygiene. Research found that germs in the mouth can extend to the rest of the body via the bloodstream, leading to inflammation and eventual diseases like heart disease.
People with gum infections are twice as likely to experience a stroke, heart attack, or other cardiovascular events.
Lowers Cancer Risk
Poor oral health is related to a higher risk of developing cancer. According to a research published in Harvard Health Publishing, periodontitis (an infection of the gums) is associated with a higher risk of developing pancreas cancer.
Periodontitis is an infection of the gums and bone that supports your teeth; the germs that cause it can be dangerous and may cause you to have hybrid dentures, which you can learn more about when you read more here. Research has also shown that those with less-than-ideal oral hygiene are more likely to acquire the human papillomavirus, which can result in cancer.
Prevents Dementia
There are an estimated 40 million people with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia around the globe. Researchers at Harvard Health Publishing found that certain types of bacteria that can form in the pharynx can travel to the brain and kill nerve cells there. This may lead to memory loss and eventually Alzheimer’s disease.
Reduces Bad Breath
No one likes being the person with a bad odor. Good oral health is one of the best ways to avoid having to resort to masking methods like chewing gum or eating mints. Food particles trapped in the mouth create unpleasant odors if you don’t brush or floss after consuming.
Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that develops even when you’re not eating and produces unpleasant odors, can build up on your teeth if you don’t brush and floss regularly. Tooth decay and gum irritation are additional side effects of plaque buildup.
Builds Self-Esteem
When you grin, people can’t help but approach you. Losing teeth, developing cavities, or having them discolored can be traumatic. The benefits of good oral hygiene and aesthetic dentistry extend beyond the body to affect how we feel about ourselves and relate to others. Caring for your teeth and gums can improve your self-esteem and general health.
Conclusion
Taking care of your teeth isn’t just about maintaining a bright smile and smelling fresh, as more and more studies show a correlation between oral and general health. Studies have shown a correlation between bad oral health and other medical issues. At the same time, the opposite is also true: a healthy mouth can positively affect one’s emotional and physical well-being. Healthy teeth and gums are a product of good at-home care and regular dental checkups, a balanced diet, not eating too many sweets, and not smoking.