Most people come up with resolutions, a habit to start or give up, time management or weight loss goals. Our suggestion? Make oral health your resolution, because your mouth is more powerful than you may know!
Recent research has proven that the health of your mouth is directly related to your overall health.
What conditions may be linked to poor oral health?
Your oral health might contribute to various diseases and conditions, including:
- Cardiovascular (Heart) disease: Some research suggests that heart disease, blocked arteries and stroke might be linked to the inflammation and infections that oral bacteria can cause.
- Endocarditis: An infection of the inner lining of your heart, typically occurs when bacteria from another part of your body, such as your mouth, spread through your bloodstream and attach to damaged areas in your heart.
- Pregnancy and birth: Periodontitis has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.
Certain conditions can also affect your oral health, including:
- Diabetes: Diabetes decreases the body’s resistance to infection. Gum disease (Gingivitis and Periodontitis) appears to be more frequent and severe in diabetics. Conversely, research shows that people who have gum disease have a harder time controlling their blood sugar levels, and that regular periodontal dental care can improve diabetes control.
- HIV/AIDS: Gum disease and painful mucosal lesions are common in people who have HIV/AIDS.
- Osteoporosis, which causes bones to become weak and brittle might be linked with periodontal bone loss and tooth loss.
- Other conditions that might affect your oral health include eating disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, head and neck cancers, and Sjogren’s syndrome, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Because of these potential links, tell your dentist if you have any medical conditions, take any medications or have had any changes in your overall health. And if you didn’t already have enough reasons to take good care of your mouth, teeth and gums, the relationship between your oral health and your overall health provides even more. You’re making an investment in your overall health, not just for now, but for the future, too.