The connection between your mouth and your body shouldn’t be ignored. From a chronic cough to congenital heart failure, your teeth and gums play a huge role in your overall health.

Although nothing is conclusive, most dentists believe that healthy teeth and gums are the first step to oral health.

Dr. Jack Ringer, a popular dentist who has appeared on the Doctors and NBC Nightly News, understands the importance of healthy teeth and gums, especially when it comes to the rest of the body.

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease and tooth decay cause bad bacteria, and although most of the bacteria in your mouth is healthy, it becomes uncontrollable when the bad stuff takes over.

Plaque is that sticky substance you feel on your teeth if you haven’t brushed. Plaque contains acid and bad bacteria. Plaque is easy to get rid of with healthy oral habits. However, if you are lazy about brushing and flossing, it will eventually be impossible to remove.

Referred to by your dentist in Anaheim Hills as calculus, tartar is that hard stuff on your teeth that started out as plaque. When you practice healthy oral hygiene, tartar will not be an issue.

Oral Health Habits for a Healthy Mouth and Body Connection

• Brush Twice each Day
• Floss Daily
• See your Orange County Dentist Regularly
• Enjoy a Healthy Diet
• Replace your Tooth brush when Bristles Fray

Oral Health Issues you Can’t Ignore

If you have noticed pockets between your teeth and gums, schedule an appointment with Dr. Ringer. Your OC dentist explains that those pockets mean the tartar and bacteria has started to make its way into your blood stream. Rinse your mouth after you eat, brush, floss, and use a good mouthwash. This will help get rid of food particles and bacteria.

Oral Health and Disease

Studies indicate that oral bacteria, which lead to inflammation, may add complications for patients who are dealing HIV/AIDS or diabetes. People who suffer from either disease, have a higher percentage of gum disease.

Diseases Linked to Gum Disease and Tooth Decay

Endocarditis

Endocarditis, which affects the lining of your heart, occurs when germs and bacteria from other parts of your body spread through the bloodstream. That bacterium attaches itself to your heart damaging it beyond repair.

Cardiovascular Disease

Also linked to inflammation and infection, cardiovascular disease, which affects the blood vessels around the heart, occurs when the passageways are narrowed. Once blocked, you have a higher risk of heart attack and stroke.

Oral Health and Pregnancy

Women who give birth prematurely and expectant mothers who give birth to a baby, who is underweight, have been known to suffer from periodontal disease, which is the more serious form of gum disease.

Osteoporosis

Bones that are brittle and weak, a condition known as osteoporosis, have been linked to bone and tooth loss. While taking medication may help the condition, there is a risk that the drugs to treat people with osteoporosis may damage your jawbone.

Alzheimer’s Disease

Studies show that patients who have Alzheimer’s Disease also suffer from gum disease. Research indicates that poor oral hygiene causes bacteria to flow from the blood vessels into the brain. When you practice good oral health habits, you are strengthening your immune system helping prevent disease.

Other Problems Associated with Oral Health

Eating disorders, arthritis, neck and head cancer and other immune system disorders, such as AIDS/HIV and Sjogren’s syndrome have also been linked to gum disease and tooth decay.

Regular Checkups for Good Oral Health

A beautiful smile starts with healthy teeth and gums and good oral health. Keeping your mouth healthy is easy when you practice good oral hygiene and enjoy a healthy diet. Regular dental checkups are a vital part of overall health.

Schedule a dental checkup with Dental Cosmetics Anaheim Hills and keep your body healthy. You won’t regret it. Call or click now.