We know how important it is to keep our mouths healthy, but did you know that healthy mouths are also important for our overall wellness? It’s true – tooth decay and gum disease can lead to health problems throughout the entire body.
Not that anyone needed new reasons to brush and floss each day, but studies have shown that proper dental care can help prevent serious health issues. Bacteria in the mouth, and especially gum disease, may increase your chances of heart attack, diabetes, and respiratory problems. On the other side, those with diabetes and hormonal imbalances may be more susceptible to gum diseases as well. This creates a cycle that only dedicated oral health care can help stop.
So if you haven’t been keeping up with routine daily dental care, now you have even more reasons to keep your mouth clean. Without regular flossing and brushing, plaque build-up can cause an accumulation of bacteria that causes infection. A common infection like gingivitis can lead to more serious infections, and that bacteria can travel to other areas of the body, such as the lungs and in some cases into the bloodstream.
Your dental health can also be an indicator of health in the rest of your body. Changes in your mouth can alert your dentist to potential health problems, and even your saliva can be tested to detect diseases.
To minimize your health risks, follow a simple oral care routine:
- Brush teeth twice daily
- Floss daily
- Eat a healthy diet, incorporating some of these foods
- Avoid smoking
- Visit your dentist for routine check-ups and cleanings, and also if you notice any changes in your mouth
Southeast Dental in Markham is committed to providing you and your family with the best dental care possible. With our professional treatment and your daily dental health routine, we can work together to keep you healthy. Book your appointment online today or call us at 905-471-2002.