subject: Your Dental Health- A Window To Your Overall Health [print this page] Taking care of your teeth and gums is important. In fact, recent studies have shown a strong link between dental health and the rest of your body. Heart disease, diabetes and low weight birth babies are all connected to failing dental health. The link between your oral health and overall health has garnered a lot of attention in the last decade. In fact, many recent studies have suggested that that your mouth is the window to the rest of your body's health. By paying close attention to your mouth, you can learn a lot about what's going on with your general health.
Since oral health has such a huge impact on your overall health and vice versa, your dentist can tell you a lot about your general health from a professional dental exam. In many cases, a dentist may be the first medical professional to spot a potential problem. The mouth can reflect signs and symptoms of health and disease. It's never too late to start taking better care of your teeth and gums. Start with a visit to your dentist in Grand Rapids.
What's the Connection?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is caused by a bacterial infection that attacks gums, and bone. Untreated, these infections can eventually enter the blood stream, traveling to major organs and initiating new infections. Gum disease has been linked to several health conditions, such as diabetes and osteoporosis.
Other studies have shown a correlation between poor oral health and the health of a person's heart, as the bacteria found in gum disease can lead to blood clots which increases the risk for heart attacks or stroke. Diabetic patients who already have a compromised ability to respond to infections are also at a greater risk for periodontal diseases. Additionally, gum disease has also been associated with preterm and low birth weight babies
What You can do to Protect Your Mouth and Body
Detecting gum disease in its earliest stages gives you your best chance for stopping and reversing the disease. Always visit your dentist at the first signs of gum disease. Common symptoms of gum disease include:
*Red, swollen, tender gums
*Gums that bleed easily while brushing
*Receding gums
*Loose teeth
*Persistent bad breath
Brush Up on Basic Oral Health
Although poor oral health can lead to serious health complications in the rest of your body, the good news is that it's relatively easy to keep your mouth healthy and free of dental disease. To protect your teeth and gums, resolve to practice good oral hygiene every day.
*Brush your teeth at least twice a day.
*Floss daily
*Eat a healthy diet and limit between-meal snacks
*Schedule regular dental checkups
Taking care of your oral health is an investment in your overall health. Talk to your dentist in Grand Rapids about ways you can improve your oral hygiene habits to keep your mouth and body healthy.
