10 Surprising Health Benefits of Maintaining Good Dental and Gum Health
Bacteria and plaque can accumulate on your teeth and gums as a result of neglecting your oral health. Plaque becomes tartar if it is not removed, and gingivitis sets in.
Gum disease, if left untreated, can result in tooth loss, mouth infections, and other major dental issues like tooth decay. However, periodontal disease still poses additional risks. Periodontal disease is caused by a bacterial infection that can advance past your gum line and affect nearby tissues before eventually infecting your entire body.
Fortunately, all of that may be avoided with basic oral hygiene. Taking good care of your teeth and gums can help your general health and wellness in the following ways, to name a few:
- Lower risk of developing heart disease
In the United States, heart disease is the top cause of death for both men and women. Your arteries may thicken and pile up with the oral bacterial infection if it gets into your bloodstream. This accumulation causes atherosclerosis, a major kind of heart disease, which is a deadly condition.
- Lessened inflammation in the joints
Inflammation in your joints, heart, blood vessels, and other body systems leads to the development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Your chances of having RA or other inflammatory illnesses are increased by oral bacteria, which can cause inflammation throughout your entire body.
- Healthy pregnancy
Gum disease, whether minor or severe, has a clear connection to pregnancy concerns such premature birth and low birth weights. Researchers believe that the body’s natural defences against germs may trigger early labour.
- Better sexual health
Men who neglect their teeth and gums may develop erectile dysfunction. Your blood vessels get inflamed when gum disease germs reach the bloodstream. The blood flow to your genitals decreases as blood vessels become irritated, which might impair your ability to achieve or maintain an erection.
- Improved respiratory condition
Bacteria can enter your body in other ways except through your bloodstream. Bacteria enter your lungs instantly with each breath. Oral bacteria raise your risk of respiratory diseases like pneumonia and bronchitis once they have entered your lungs.
- Reduced risks for cancer(s)
Gum disease raises the risk for all cancers, including blood cancers. The inflammation in your body brought on by oral bacteria may be the reason of these increases.
- Enhanced fertility
Periodontal disease can harm fertility treatments as well as damage a woman’s ability to conceive. This is most likely a result of how progesterone and oestrogen are affected by gum disease.
- Defense of your brain cells
There are other risks connected with gum disease in addition to those caused by oral bacteria. Your mouth releases chemicals that damage brain cells when you have tartar buildup. The chances of developing Alzheimer’s disease and memory loss rise when you combine this with oral bacteria that reach your bloodstream and nerve channels.
- Lessening of the risk of renal disease
Oral bacteria can cause chronic kidney disease, but they can also be fatal to older people who already have the condition. - Reduced chance of complications from diabetes
Gum disease makes it more difficult to control your blood sugar levels, which can make managing diabetes more challenging. You can also notice higher blood sugar production if your periodontal disease is more severe.
The most crucial action you can do to safeguard your teeth, gums, and general health is to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing frequently. To get rid of harmful tartar accumulation, regular professional cleanings are also necessary. Moreover, Primecare Family Dentistry provides options for treating gum disease at all stages.
Call Primecare Family Dentistry or make an appointment online right away to take advantage of all the unexpected benefits that come with maintaining your teeth and gums.