Oral Systemic Connection to General Health

Did you know your oral health and your general health are closely connected? Scientists have conducted numerous clinical studies showing dental disease is linked to systemic diseases which include heart disease, stroke, respiratory disease, diabetes, dementia, rheumatoid arthritis and even some cancers. Oral disease can worsen existing health problems and vice versa. In pregnant women, gum disease increases the risk of a preterm or low-birthweight baby. Our infographic clearly explains these risks.

Good Preventative Dental Care is Key

When you come to visit us here at Timber Dental Care, we will want to know your medical history. By fully understanding your medical health, we can help you gain and maintain good oral health and will provide you with a personalized treatment preventative dental care plan. This shows how frequently you should see us for checkups and cleanings and information on any additional treatments we feel will be beneficial. If you do develop dental problems, regular checkups will quickly detect them, ensuring we can provide the appropriate treatment more quickly, protecting your smile and your general health.

To maintain a healthy mouth and a healthy body, contact Timber Dental Care today and schedule your checkup.

Explaining the Link Between Oral and General Health

As yet, scientists aren’t sure of the exact connection but if you have tooth decay or gum disease, mouth bacteria can get into your bloodstream and from there can reach any part of your body. Once inside your body these bacteria cause inflammation, which is thought to be key to understanding the connection between oral health and general health.

Diabetes is a good example, as poorly controlled diabetes can increase glucose in saliva, providing fuel for gum disease-causing bacteria. As these bacteria thrive, they cause infection and bleeding gums. The bacteria enter the body through these open wounds in the gums and the inflammation they create makes it harder to control blood sugar levels. Failing to look after your dental health puts your general health at risk. If you have certain health conditions, especially those affecting your immune system then you may be more risk of developing dental diseases.