Oral Health is Connected to Your Immune System

What are your teeth trying to tell you?

Your oral health can be indicative of issues affecting other parts of your body. Bacteria is most commonly found in your mouth. A healthy immune system will dispel the bacteria found in your mouth preventing it from causing other issues. So while it’s important to maintain good dental hygiene to improve oral health, you need to take care of the rest of your body as well.

The bacteria that grows in your mouth from inadequate brushing and flossing and food build up can spread to the rest of your body. Aside from causing cavities and gum disease, this bacteria can travel and affect other organs causing major infections.

 

Common causes of oral health problems include:

• Poor dental hygiene
• Reduced saliva production

Many diseases and infections begin in the mouth. Did you know that, according to the Academy of General Dentistry, more than 90 percent of all systemic diseases produce oral signs and symptoms?

That means by taking care of your teeth and regularly getting dental checkups you can stay ahead of diseases that can be found in the mouth. By neglecting to take care of your oral health you are increasing your risk of developing other diseases.

The first signs of many major issues are found in the mouth. They could start with gingivitis or can be indicated by a lesion or sore.

A few of the major issues include:

• Endocarditis
• Cardiovascular Disease
• Pregnancy Complications
• Stroke

Just as problems with your mouth can affect the rest of your body, conditions affecting other parts of your body can affect your oral health.

Some of these include:

• Diabetes
• Alzheimer’s
• HIV/AIDs
• Osteoporosis

Oral health and good dental hygiene are far more than preventing cavities and keeping your teeth white. Maintaining good oral health can literally improve your life.

You can protect your oral health and avoid complications by getting regular cleanings at your dentist, flossing and brushing properly, drinking water, changing out your toothbrush every three months, and eating healthier.

Protecting your oral health is imperative to keeping yourself healthy.

If you are concerned about your oral health or other dental issues contact our office today. Schedule an appointment for a personal consultation and evaluation.