Oral Health and Overall Wellness: The Surprising Connection
November 15, 2023 9:00 amMany people understand the importance of maintaining good oral health. However, some may be surprised to learn that oral health is closely linked to overall wellness. That’s right, a connection that is often overlooked can help you avoid a variety of health problems, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and more!
How is Oral Health Connected to Overall Wellness?
Your mouth is a gateway to the rest of your body. Everything you eat and drink passes through your mouth, and the bacteria in your mouth can enter your bloodstream and travel to other parts of your body.
For example, when you have gum disease, the bacteria in your mouth can cause inflammation throughout your body. This inflammation can increase your risk of developing other chronic diseases, such as:
Heart Disease: Gum disease has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. In fact, people with gum disease are two to three times more likely to suffer a heart attack, stroke, or something similar.
Diabetes: People with diabetes are more susceptible to gum disease and other oral health issues due to their compromised immune system.
Respiratory Infections: Research shows that bacteria from gum disease can exacerbate lung problems like pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
How to Improve Your Oral Health
With all this is mind, improving your oral health can improve your overall health. Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do! These include:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing daily
- Visiting your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings
- Eating a healthy diet
- Avoiding smoking and tobacco use
Good oral health is essential for your overall wellness. By following the tips above, you can help keep your mouth healthy and reduce your risk of developing other health problems.
Manage Your Dental Health with Marigold Dental Studio
The connection between dental health and overall wellness plays a large factor in a healthy lifestyle. At Marigold Dental Studio, we always encourage patients to visit us regularly and to reach out when there are concerns. By keeping up with your oral health, your overall health can thrive!
Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0
Categorised in: Dental Tips