A Healthy Teeth is a sign of A Healthier Body
The popular saying that health is wealth which is true has a similar analogy to having healthy teeth that mean having a healthier body. The build-up of bacteria beneath the gum as a result of inflammation caused by a disease called Periodontal disease.
The symptoms of the periodontal disease include a bad taste in the mouth, swollen gums, gums that bleed, receding gums, and bad breath. If you do not take care of your teeth with a good dental hygiene and make it healthier to avoid the periodontal disease, it will lead to other much more serious negative health conditions.
Other health conditions affected by Periodontal Disease include:
- Fundamental Dental Hygiene
- The Cardiac Implications
- Diabetes
- Respiratory Infections
- Breast Cancer
- Pregnancy Complications
A little highlight on each of the bulleted point above is as follows:
Fundamental Dental Hygiene
Taking care of our teeth with good hygiene is the foundation of a healthy teeth. Brushing teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste (such as Closeup) approved by the American Dental Association and flossing daily will prevent most dental problems. Regular dental cleaning and visiting a licensed dentist for check up will provide early detection of any emerging problems.
The Cardiac Implications
Untreated gum disease causes inflammation and can predispose you to clogged coronary and/or carotid arteries. It also can affect cholesterol levels; patients who were successfully treated for gum disease lowered their cholesterol levels. Patients who neglect their daily oral care and brushless than twice a day are 70 percent more likely to develop heart disease or stroke.
Diabetes
People with periodontal disease have twice the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes than those who have no gum disease. The theory is that people who have significant oral infections tend to develop chronic inflammation in other areas of their body. A chronic inflammatory process can affect the body’s ability to regulate insulin.
Respiratory Infections
Bacteria originating from gum disease are readily inhaled into the respiratory tract and can cause pneumonia, bronchitis, upper respiratory infections or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Breast Cancer
A study was done in Stockholm, Sweden at the Karolinska Institute suggests that women with gum disease may be 11 times more likely to develop breast cancer than women who have healthier teeth and gums.
Pregnancy Complications
Due to hormonal changes and increased blood flow to the gums, 50 percent of pregnant women develop gingivitis, which presents with swollen, sore and bleeding gums. This condition is a precursor to periodontal disease. Women with the known periodontal disease are more likely to have premature births and low birth rate babies.
Good dental hygiene is critical to good general health. Be sure to follow a daily routine at home and seek professional dental cleanings and check-ups at least every six months.