Did you know that your lungs teeth and gums are connected? Of course, they are both located in your body, but your lungs teeth and gums are more connected than you know.

The connection between lungs teeth and gums is real. According to your Anaheim Hills Dentist Dr. Jack Ringer, good oral health habits help you breathe better.

If you are slack about brushing or flossing or can’t remember the last time you saw your dentist in Orange County, your lungs could be paying the price.

As past president, an Accredited Fellow with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and a featured expert on television, Dr. Ringer understands the connection between lungs teeth and gums.

Lungs Teeth and Gums and COPD

Bad oral hygiene contributes to several respiratory diseases that include COPD. Bronchitis and pneumonia, along with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are the most common respiratory diseases linked to poor oral health.

What is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is aggravated by gum disease making COPD episodes more likely according to the Journal of Periodontology study in 2011. The most common disease to affect the respiratory system also comes in third place when it comes to cause of death. COPD affects over 11 million people. The condition is chronic, not completely treatable, and ongoing.

Symptoms of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Include:

• Excessive Coughing
• Shortness of Breath
• Limited Lung Capacity
• Abnormal Mucus Production

Who is for Lungs Teeth and Gums Problems?

If you are a heavy smoker you have a higher risk of COPD. While you are more likely to develop the disease if you smoke a cigar, cigarette or pipe, you are also at risk if you don’t smoke, especially if you are exposed to second hand smoke.

People who have sleep apnea, bronchitis, or asthma or people who are exposed to heavy smog may end up with the disease as well.

Who is Diagnosed with COPD?

One of the most misdiagnosed or under diagnosed diseases on the planet is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Most patients are not diagnosed until 40 or older because of slow developing symptoms. If you have any symptoms or think you may be suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, it is important to see your primary care physician.

Know Your Body Know your Lungs Teeth and Gums

Just like a giant jigsaw, every piece or part of your body fits together perfectly. Your oral health is a big part of the puzzle as what you breathe in goes directly to your lungs.

Plaque and tartar is loaded with bad bacteria that will reach your lungs. If you have periodontal disease with pockets between your gums and teeth, you are setting yourself up for a respiratory ailment. Combine bad bacteria to your bad habits and the environment, and you could be setting yourself up for COPD. Bad bacteria can also permanently damage lung tissue resulting in a higher chance of respiratory infection.

Gum Disease and Pre-Existing Conditions

If you battle bronchitis or asthma and suffer from bacteria buildup you are a ticking time bomb. If you are already dealing with respiratory problems, tooth decay and gum disease will make things worse. Bad oral hygiene could send you to the ER.

Be sure you talk to Dr. Ringer if you detect any oral health issues or if you suffer from a respiratory disease. Remember, lifestyle, genetics and stress, are also related to oral health.

COPD Prevention and Lungs Teeth and Gums

If you suffer from gum disease, get it fixed. Your dentist in Anaheim Hills recommends regular checkups along with brushing twice and flossing once each day. Follow a healthy diet rich in calcium, protein and veggies and if you smoke, quit.

For more information regarding lungs teeth and gums, contact Dental Cosmetics. Your dentist in Anaheim Hills can help you prevent respiratory illness with regular dental checkups for gum disease and tooth decay prevention.

Call or click for a dental checkup for lungs teeth and gums in Orange County today.