Your mouth is the primary gateway to your body for food, beverages, and oxygen, and it is intrinsically connected to your overall health. Therefore, maintaining optimal oral health does much more than keeping your teeth white.
The Ripple Effect of Poor Oral Health
Ignoring your dental health can set off a cascade of unwanted systemic responses throughout your body. The reason is when gums are inflamed, bacteria from your mouth can enter the bloodstream with ease.
Once inside, these microbes can travel throughout your body, potentially leading to health risks, including inflammation, and narrowing of arteries – a key risk factor for heart disease.
A noteworthy example is Endocarditis, an infection of the inner lining of your heart chambers or valves that can occur when bacteria from your mouth spreads throughout your bloodstream and attaches to damaged areas in your heart.
Severe gum disease (such as periodontal disease) may also increase the risk of preterm delivery for pregnant women.
Protecting Our Body Through Good Oral Cleaning Habits
The importance of maintaining good oral health cannot be overstated, and that is why we practice regular brushing and flossing, paired with professional dental check-ups.
Embracing a diligent dental hygiene regimen does more than safeguard your teeth – it acts as a frontline defense for your body and limits harmful bacteria from entering your bloodstream.
As science continues to discover more connections between the microbiome in our mouths and our health, it becomes clearer that oral hygiene is a cornerstone for a healthier life.
The Hicks orthodontic practice has been around for over 40 years, with Bryan Hicks taking over for his father. Dr. Hicks works hard to give his patients extraordinary outcomes from their orthodontic treatment.
If you have any questions about this article or need to talk to someone in the office, give us a call at (604) 922-0111.
Title – The Connection Between Oral Health and Overall Well-Being
Description – The Connection Between Oral Health and Overall Well-Being Cannot Be Overstated. Read This Guide to Learn More.
