We all know that taking care of our teeth is important for maintaining our oral health, but do you know the main reason behind it? Poor oral health can actually lead to a number of other serious health problems. In fact, recent studies have shown a link between oral health and overall health, proving that the state of your mouth can have a direct impact on your general well-being. A professional Dentist in Weybridge also mentioned that oral health is a window to overall health. This even includes brain health. So keep reading to learn more about the four health issues that arise from poor oral health.
Cardiovascular Diseases
Ever wondered why dentists have a medical history form to be filled out? It is because they understand that oral health directly affects your heart health. People with poor dental hygiene or periodontal disease are more likely to develop atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque builds up in the arteries and restricts blood flow throughout the body. This can lead to an increased risk of stroke and heart attack. In fact, people with periodontal disease are twice as likely to suffer from heart disease.
Diabetes
Another issue that can be related to poor oral health is diabetes. Research shows that people who have periodontal disease are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes, and those who already have the condition often have difficulty controlling their blood sugar levels. A study done by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research found that people with periodontal disease are three times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than those without it.
Respiratory Diseases
Bad oral health can also be linked to respiratory illnesses such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and other chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases. Bacteria from your mouth can travel through the airways, leading to infections in the lungs which could cause these more severe problems. In a study done in Germany, people with periodontal disease were found to be more prone to developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disorders than those without it.
Dementia
Do you think your brain health has nothing to do with your oral health? Think again. Studies have shown that there is a correlation between the two. People with poor oral health are more likely to develop dementia and other cognitive issues as they age. This can range from mild memory loss to more serious Alzheimer’s disease. A further study in 2015 found that people with periodontal disease are 70% more likely to develop mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a precursor to Alzheimer’s. So it’s clear that everything you hear from your dentist, including brushing, flossing your teeth, and using mouthwash regularly, is not just a template.
Poor oral health can lead to a range of other serious illnesses, but taking the right steps to maintain your oral hygiene can help keep you healthy and happy.…