San Francisco and Marin CA
Our mouths are often referred to as the windows to the rest of our body. Issues like gum disease, infections or even bad breath can sometimes indicate underlying health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease or digestive issues. Thus, along with consuming well-balanced meals and exercising regularly, maintaining your teeth and gums is an important aspect of your overall health and well-being. Our dentist in San Francisco adopts a holistic approach to dentistry and is using today’s blog to explain the connection between oral health and overall physical health.
The mouth-body connection
Your mouth is home to millions of bacteria, most of which are harmless. However, if you don’t take proper care of your oral health, the harmful bacteria can multiply, resulting in tooth decay and gum disease. The effects of poor oral health extend well beyond the mouth; in fact, unhealthy gums and teeth have been associated with systemic health conditions, including the following:
Heart disease
Most American adults have had gum disease in some form during their lives. Gum disease is a type of gum infection that starts as gingivitis, which is an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup on the teeth. If ignored, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that is characterized by deep infections that can damage the tissues and bone that support the teeth. Inflammation and bacteria from gum infections — and particularly periodontitis — can enter the bloodstream, potentially contributing to clogged arteries and increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke.
Diabetes
Diabetics are more prone to gum disease because of their higher blood sugar levels. Poorly controlled blood sugar can also lead to dry mouth, which increases the risk of cavities and gum infections. On the flip side, treating gum disease can help improve blood sugar control, making good oral hygiene particularly important for diabetics.
Alzheimer’s disease
Researchers have found that poor oral hygiene may increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Gum disease may contribute to inflammation in the brain, potentially accelerating cognitive decline.
Pregnancy
Expectant mothers are often warned about hormonal changes making them more susceptible to gum disease, which increases the risks of premature birth and low birth weight in babies. Brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing once daily and keeping up with your two routine dental visits a year at our Marin dental office will help minimize these risks and contribute to a healthier pregnancy.
Holistic oral health in the Bay Area
At Glen Park Dental, we understand that your oral health goes beyond just having a pretty smile. We believe that everything in the body is interconnected, and this philosophy is reflected in the care we provide. A healthy mouth contributes to a healthy body, and regular visits to our Bay Area dentist’s office help maintain that balance. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily and visiting the dentist biannually for routine check-ups are simple yet effective methods to safeguard both your oral and overall health. If it’s time to book your next appointment, call Glen Park Dental at (415) 799-3900, or reach out to us online today.
