This year, World Health Day will be celebrated on Sunday, April 7. This is the perfect time to learn more about your health, and how you can keep your body, mouth, and mind healthy.
So, at the office of Prit Naik, DDS, we’ve put together an article exploring the ways that your dental health affects your overall health. Take a look now, learn more about your mouth and how its health affects your overall health, and start thinking about the steps you can take to live a healthier, happier life today.
This is one of the most well-documented ways in which your oral health affects your overall health. If you have gum disease, which is caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar on your gums, the bacteria in the plaque and tartar can be transferred to the rest of your body.
The small capillaries and veins in your mouth will transport these bacteria throughout the rest of your body, through your blood. This can cause inflammation in your veins, arteries, and heart.
Inflammation, in combination with another issue like plaque in your arteries or atherosclerosis (the hardening of arteries) can contribute to a higher risk of heart attack and heart disease. Some studies suggest that gum disease can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke by as much as 20%.
Another issue which can be potentially life-threatening is endocarditis. This is an infection of the endocardium, which is the lining of your heart. Endocarditis can affect the ability of your heart’s valves to function properly, and is an extremely serious heart condition which requires immediate medical attention.
Oral bacteria don’t just make their way into your cardiovascular system through your veins, but can also infect your respiratory system. If you have poor oral hygiene or a high level of oral bacteria, these bacteria can be drawn into your lungs when you breathe.
While the majority of oral bacteria may be mostly harmless, some of them are not. Gum disease and poor oral hygiene can increase your risk of developing pneumonia and other respiratory illnesses.
Some studies have suggested that gum disease may be directly responsible for causing pregnancy complications, such as underweight babies, pregnancy complications, and difficulties during delivery. While more research is required to understand this link, it seems likely that gingivitis and gum disease in pregnant women does have an adverse effect on their unborn children.
As you can see, your oral health affects much more than just your teeth and gums. Having a healthy mouth will help you maintain a good overall level of health, and avoid complications and issues like the ones we’ve listed above.
Are you overdue for your next teeth cleaning in Tysons Corner, Mclean or Vienna? Come to the office of Priti Naik, DDS right away. You can contact us for an appointment at (703) 288-1800, or come to our office at 8230 Boone Blvd, #320, Vienna, VA 22182. We’re always accepting new patients, so feel free to come in right away.