When you see your dentist, he can tell more from looking inside your mouth than how healthy your teeth and gums are. Your oral health can offer many clues as to how healthy you are overall. Have you probably heard about the mind-body connection? This can be thought of as being the mouth-body connection!
There is a connection between the health of your mouth and your overall level of health throughout your body. For instance, there are bacteria everywhere in your body. Your mouth is full of it. However, most of the bacteria that reside in your mouth are not harmful.
The natural defenses of the body (i.e., your immune system function) and the regular oral care habits that you follow, such as brushing and flossing, are enough to maintain the levels of bacteria and prevent them from growing out of control.
Infections such as gum disease and tooth decay can develop if harmful bacteria are given room to develop. There are also other ways that the normal balance of bacteria in the mouth can be upset. Examples of these include the use of medications or various dental procedures.
When the protective barriers of the mouth have been breached, signs and symptoms of problems can show themselves. Visiting your dentist regularly is essential because there are things he will notice in your mouth that you may not be able to. If a problem is getting underway, he can suggest treatments that will prevent the condition from worsening. If you do not treat your condition, your migraines in Baton Rouge may get worse.
Your oral health has a direct line to what is occurring in other areas of your body. It may affect or be affected by medical conditions or diseases that you have.
Pregnant women must cope with fluctuating hormone levels, which can make their gums sore and can lead to bleeding. Gum disease in women who are expecting has been associated with premature births and babies born with a low birth weight.
Research suggests that cardiovascular disease and stroke and clogged arteries may be connected to bacteria in the mouth. It is possibly because of chronic inflammation from a severe form of gum disease, known as periodontitis.
If your dentist diagnoses you with gum disease, the sooner a treatment can get underway to help you, the better. Gum disease and any dental work that cuts or tears the gums may introduce bacteria into the bloodstream.
This is a big concern for a person who has a weak or compromised immune system or a person who has sustained damage to their heart valve because it can give rise to infection in any number of places throughout the body. For example, it can lead to endocarditis, an infection of the heart’s interior lining.
A dentist will also recommend that you stay vigilant for any change in your gum health between visits. If you notice increased sensitivity, discoloration, or bleeding, it can be early indications of gum disease. If you suspect any of these things, it is crucial to consult with a dentist early. When a health problem is spotted and addressed earlier, it can be resolved as soon as possible.
Other health concerns related to gum disease are associated with the naturally present microorganisms present in the mouth. The bacteria are normal and are kept in balance by the healthy function of the mouth and saliva.
With the presence of gum disease, these bacteria can multiply far beyond normal levels, spread further into the body, and cause or exacerbate other health problems.
A regular and thorough oral health care regimen can mean the difference between healthy gums and the onset of gingivitis. Your dentist can recommend the best way to keep your mouth clean to avoid health problems. If you pay attention to these recommendations, you will be on the right track to keeping your mouth healthy and avoiding the associated chronic conditions.
Ignorance has been the main cause of dental problems in many people. Keeping in mind the importance of oral hygiene for total health care can help you maintain a bright white smile and fresh, healthy breath. So, ensuring that you follow all of the dental health recommendations and stay observant for the first sign of any issue can mean an all-around higher quality of life.