5 Health Conditions That Are Linked To Poor Oral Health

In our busy lives, taking care of our teeth usually comes last in our long list of responsibilities. But did you know that your oral health is linked to your overall physical health? Deterioration in the condition of your oral cavity can increase your chances of suffering from various underlying diseases. It is really important to follow a good oral care routine or we might be causing harm to our entire body. 

Health Conditions Linked To Poor Oral Health

We are all aware that early indicators of something going wrong in your body, show up in your mouth. Let us take a look at health conditions linked to poor oral hygiene.

Cardiovascular Diseases

If you are suffering from periodontal disease, then it exposes you to the risk of suffering from various cardiovascular diseases. The bacteria which cause swelling in your gum tissues can enter your bloodstream and cause damage. It could reach your arteries and hasten the process of plaque accumulation. Over time it hardens into tartar which in turn could harden your arteries as well. It leads to problems in smooth blood flow and causes blockages, thereby increasing the chances of a heart attack. Endocarditis, an infection of the inner heart lining, has also been linked to periodontal disease. Thus, a good oral care routine is important along with regular dental checkups with your dentist.

Diabetes

Diabetes can make your periodontal disease worse and make it difficult to control it. But your gum disease could make your diabetes go crazy. Your blood sugar level could fluctuate and harm your body. Thus, it is important for diabetic patients to take good care of their oral cavity to avoid complications. Additionally, you must regularly visit your dentist for proper maintenance of your pearly whites.

Complications Related To Pregnancy and Birth

Women who are expecting go through several hormonal and bodily changes. These changes could affect their oral health condition as well. At this stage, your oral cavity is susceptible to suffering from gum infections. Hence, you must take perfect care of your oral health. Gum disease in pregnant women has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight. Moreover, any infection which affects the mother during this time might harm the baby as well. Hence, taking all precautions is extremely necessary.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Bacteria which causes inflammation in your gums can also cause inflammation throughout the rest of your body. Hence, people suffering from gum disease are at an increased risk of suffering from Rheumatoid Arthritis as well. It is a chronic disease that is extremely painful. A good oral care routine coupled with regular appointments with your dentist could act as an effective preventative measure.

Cancer

We are all aware of how poor oral health is linked to oral and throat cancer.  But did you know that other forms of cancer have also been linked to gum disease? Improve your oral hygiene or the risks of suffering from cancer increase greatly. Proper dental care can reduce these risks and protect you from any harm.

We hope this blog has helped you to understand the importance of good oral hygiene. Get in touch with us at Palatine Dental Associates if you are looking for the best dental care services in Palatine, IL.