The Problems with Not Making Oral Health Just As Important As Your Overall Health
Posted on 12/21/2020 by Lemond Hunter
Patients experience problems when they do not make their oral health just as important as their overall health. The mouth often brims with bacteria that can cause diseases. The main problems that result from a lack of good oral hygiene are cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.
Cardiovascular Disease
Cardiovascular disease describes a group of conditions that affect your heart. Bacteria/plaque builds up on your gums and they become inflamed. This condition is called periodontal disease. If the bacteria get into your bloodstream, this can lead to a hardening of the arteries, a condition called atherosclerosis. Flossing is a good way to reduce the chance of developing heart disease because it removes plaque.
Diabetes Risk
Gum disease can cause higher than normal blood sugar levels and poor oral health puts you at increased risk of developing diabetes. Also, inflammation in your mouth weakens your body's ability to control blood sugar. If you already have diabetes, it is especially important to take good care of your teeth and gums to prevent complications with the disease.
Respiratory Infections
If you aspirate oral periodontopathic bacteria into your lungs, you can develop aspiration pneumonia. Another respiratory condition caused by poor oral hygiene is pulmonary actinomycosis. It is caused by oral and stomach bacteria. Poor oral health and inadequate dental care also can make Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease symptoms worse. According to research studies, people with COPD who brush twice a day and visit the dentist regularly experience fewer COPD symptoms.
Making oral health just as important as overall health is a good way to prevent conditions and diseases and improve your quality of life. Contact our office for more information and to make an appointment for an oral exam. We are here to help!
Location
1739 NE 122nd Ave Portland, OR 97230-1914
Hours
Mondays & Tuesdays: 7 AM - 3 PM Wednesdays & Thursdays: 8 AM - 5 PM Fridays: Closed
Patients experience problems when they do not make their oral health just as important as their overall health. The mouth often brims with bacteria that can cause diseases. The main problems that result from a lack of good oral hygiene are cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.