dental health
Many people have a misconception that oral health and overall health are two separate things. The truth is that your overall health is closely connected to your oral health in many ways. Dental office treatment is often seen as just a way to keep your smile looking great. According to PR Newswire, 76% of respondents in a recent survey said that a person’s smile is the most important physical trait in a first impression. But even more important than appearance and first impressions is your ongoing, long-term health overall. Let’s look at a few ways that oral health and overall health are connected.

The Oral Health Connection

Oral health is connected to your physical health because the mouth is an entryway into the body. There are up to six million bacteria living in a person’s mouth at any given time. Most bacteria are harmless or even helpful, but when bad bacteria start to grow uncontrollably in the mouth, it will have negative effects on the entire body. This bacteria can enter the bloodstream and spread. Let’s look at a few types of conditions that are directly related to poor oral health.

Endocarditis

This heart infection affects the chambers and valves of the heart. It’s often set off when bacteria or germs that have entered the mouth spread into the bloodstream. This bacteria then attach to specific areas of the heart. Left untreated, this can be a fatal condition.

Cardiovascular Disease

Many diseases of the heart are thought to be connected to oral health. These include clogged arteries and strokes which are often associated with the inflammation and infection present in gum disease. This connection is so prevalent that many dentists and doctors consider gum disease to be a cardiovascular risk factor.

Pregnancy and Birth Complications

Premature birth and low birth weight can also be connected with oral health. The severe form of gum disease known as Periodontitis has been directly linked with birth and pregnancy complications. This is likely due to the high amounts of bacteria that are being flushed into the bloodstream and then passed on to the fetus via the umbilical cord. This is one reason why OBGYNs stress the importance of dental care during pregnancy.

Pneumonia

When there is an abundance of bacteria in your mouth, it’s easily transferable to your lungs. This can happen through simply breathing, coughing, or sneezing. When bacteria makes its way into your lungs, pneumonia can easily take root. Severe cases of pneumonia can result in death. These are just a few of the reasons why oral health is connected to your overall health. If you’re looking for a dental office to help you with your oral care, please call Encino Friendly Dental Center today.

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