Your oral health can give clues to your dentist and your doctor when it comes to your overall health. Problems that occur in your mouth really can affect your entire body.

The Connection

Your mouth is loaded with bacteria, and while most of that bacterium is harmless defending your body against the bad staff, poor oral hygiene can upset the balance. If the bad bacteria are allowed to live in your mouth, oral infections, such as gum disease and tooth decay can occur. Brushing twice and flossing once each day, along with regular dental appointments and a healthy diet, can go a long way in preventing bacteria growth.

Conditions that could be linked to Teeth and Gums

According to Century City Dentist, Dr. Bill Dorfman, your mouth health could contribute to the following conditions and diseases:

Cardiovascular Disease-Recent research is suggesting that clogged arteries, heart disease, and stroke may be linked to oral bacteria, infection, and inflammation.

Encocarditis-An infection that occurs in the inner lining of the heart, or the endocardium, Endocarditis will typically occur when germs and bacteria spread from one part of your body to another. Your Beverly Hills Dentist explains that mouth bacteria can spread from your bloodstream and attach itself to parts of your heart that are already damaged.

Pregnancy and Birth–Periodontal disease can cause premature and low birth weights. Women who are pregnant need to pay careful attention to oral hygiene.

Existing Conditions that Can Affect Oral Health

Diabetes-Diabetics have a lower resistance to infection making them more susceptible to gum disease. Gingivitis and the more serious periodontal disease occur more frequently in diabetics. Because people with diabetes have a tough time controlling blood sugar levels, it is vital that diabetics pay close attention to oral hygiene. People with diabetes may need to see their dentist more often as well.

Osteoporosis-Osteoporosis causes brittle and weak bones. Researchers have found evidence that osteoporosis could be linked to tooth loss and periodontal bone loss. Drugs that are used to treat the disease also carry a small risk of jawbone damage.

Alzheimer’s Disease-Poor gum health is now being linked to dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. A huge percentage of Alzheimer’s patients have gingivitis and periodontal disease.

Other conditions that could be linked to poor oral health include neck and head cancer, rheumatoid arthritis and eating disorders.

Because of the potential link between oral health and your overall health, it is important that you tell your dentist if you are on any medications, or suffer from chronic conditions or recent illnesses.

If you would like more information regarding oral health, call or click and schedule a dental appointment with Los Angeles’ most well known dentist, Dr. Bill Dorfman.

Call or click today.