Did you know our oral health gives us clues about the health of our entire body? Issues in your mouth can often affect the health of the rest of your body
Your mouth, like many areas of your body, is teeming with bacteria. In low numbers, these bacteria are generally harmless, but when they start to multiply and spread, it can wreak havoc on your body.
Normally, the body’s natural defences paired with a good oral hygiene routine keep these bacteria under control. However, without proper dental care and oral hygiene, these bacteria can reach high levels and lead to oral infections like tooth decay and gum disease.
The relationship between oral health and our body’s health
Here at Elite Dental of Staten Island, we have a commitment to preventive dentistry. We provide comprehensive endodontic treatment with the end goal of preventing gum disease. Bacteria cause inflammation of the gums, known as gingivitis. Gingivitis is the early stage gum disease and if it’s not treated quickly, can progress to advanced gum disease, known as periodontitis.
Periodontitis often causes the gums and tissue that support the teeth to be destroyed. The teeth may also eventually become loose, fall out, or have to be removed. Studies have shown that oral bacteria and the inflammation associated with periodontitis, could aid in the development of very serious diseases that include:
- Endocarditis – This infection affects the inner lining of your heart and can occur when bacteria from other parts of your body (like your mouth) spread throughout your bloodstream and attach to the impaired or damaged parts in your heart.
- Cardiovascular disease (heart disease) and stroke – These diseases have recently been linked to the inflammation and infections that oral bacteria cause.
- Pregnancy and birth – Periodontitis has been scientifically connected to both premature birth and low birth weight.
Tips for optimal oral hygiene
Maintaining and increasing your oral hygiene routine is one of the greatest things you can do to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Healthy teeth not only enhance the aesthetics of your smile, they also make it possible to eat and speak properly.
Good oral health is very important to your overall health and we have listed some tips to preserve good health:
- Make sure you are brushing twice a day
- Don’t forget to brush your tongue and gums too
- Chew sugar-free chewing gum
- Minimize sugary foods and drinks
- Visit Elite Dental every six months
- Keep your diet rich in calcium and vitamins
- Replace your toothbrush every three months
- Stop smoking or using tobacco
Ensure you are receiving elite dental care
It’s important to maintain your oral health throughout your adult life. Even with the recent innovative advancements in dental technology, nothing is better than the colour, feel and shape of your natural teeth.
The team in Staten Island believes prevention is far better than a cure and takes all appropriate steps to ensure you keep your natural teeth for life.
If you want more information on preventative dental care or would like to book an appointment, contact the friendly team at Elite Dental of Staten Island today.