How Your Oral Health Affects Your Whole Body
Just as the amount of confidence you have in your smile affects the way you live your life, the health of your smile affects the health of your whole body. If you’re still having trouble remembering to brush and floss twice a day, perhaps this list of poor oral hygiene side effects will help you remember.
The Huffington Post’s article “6 Ways Oral Hygiene Affects The Rest Of Your Body” explores some of these side effects, some of which may surprise you.
• Increased risk of premature birth: A new study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology found an association between the use of mouth rinse in pregnant women and a decreased rate of delivering babies prematurely.
•Increased time required for a woman to become pregnant: Research presented by the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology showed that women with gum disease took an average of seven months to conceive, compared to five months among their peers without gum disease
(Both of the above side effects of poor oral hygiene are believed to be linked to inflammation of the gums. Of course, the best way to prevent gum disease in the first place is through brushing and flossing.)
• Increased risk of heart attack: According to the American Academy of Periodontology, “Researchers have found that people with periodontal disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease as those without periodontal disease.” If you have gum disease, oral bacteria can enter your bloodstream and cause infection in your heart or lungs. If you already have risk factors for certain diseases, poor oral health can increase your chances of getting them.
• Increased risk of dementia: A study published in October 2007’s Journal of the American Dental Association found a relationship between people who lost more teeth before the age of 35 and an increased risk of dementia.
• Link to diabetes: In a preliminary 2007 study among rats, researchers found a possible link between periodontal disease and a progression toward diabetes among rats who were already pre-diabetic.
• Link to unhealthy lungs: A study published in the Journal of Periodontology uncovered a suspected link between periodontal disease and pulmonary disease, such as pneumonia and acute bronchitis.
What do you think? Did any of these catch you off guard?
This list further proves that dental hygiene is a foundation for good health practices. At Vacendak Dentistry, we look at more than just your teeth and gums; we look at your overall health.
Call now for your appointment with Vacendak Dentistry. It’s good for your health.
Image Source: FreeDigitalPhotos.net
