10 Surprising Links Between Dental Health and Overall Health

Blog 10 Surprising Links Between Dental Health and Overall Health

Good dental health practices can help improve your overall health and well-being. Poor oral hygiene can contribute to gum disease, which is linked to an increased risk of various illnesses, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory infection. Neglecting dental care may also lead to poor nutrition because it decreases your ability to chew properly and absorb nutrients from your food.

If you need better dental health, you must visit a dentist and follow their instructions for proper teeth cleaning and maintenance. That will help prevent gum disease and tooth decay, which can lead to more severe problems down the line.  Dental health and overall health are intimately connected. What many people need to realize, however, is that the links between the two go far beyond brushing your teeth twice a day and visiting the dentist every six months. The following surprising connections demonstrate just how closely oral hygiene affects our general well-being:

1. Diabetes
Poor dental hygiene can contribute to diabetes. Poor dental hygiene has been linked to an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Studies have shown that poor oral health is associated with higher levels of inflammation in the body, which can increase insulin resistance and make it more difficult to regulate blood sugar levels.

2. Heart Health 
Dental health affects heart health. Bacteria in the mouth can travel through the bloodstream, causing inflammation throughout the body, which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.

3. Respiratory Infections 
Oral bacteria can cause respiratory infections. Studies have shown that people with poor dental hygiene are at an increased risk of developing respiratory illnesses such as pneumonia and bronchitis, as oral bacteria can be inhaled and infect the lungs.

4. Dementia
Poor dental hygiene can contribute to dementia. Bacteria in the mouth and gums have been linked to an increased risk of developing certain types of dementia and other cognitive decline issues due to its effects on inflammation and increased oxidative stress.

5. Chronic oral pain 
Chronic oral pain can lead to depression and anxiety. Chronic oral pain can be challenging to cope with and has been linked to an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems.

6. Nutritional Deficiencies 
Poor dental hygiene can lead to nutritional deficiencies. Poor oral health can cause difficulty chewing and swallowing food, leading to malnutrition and nutritional deficiencies.

7. Sleep Apnea 
Dental problems can be linked to sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes people to stop breathing during the night, and research has found a link between gum disease and an increased risk of developing it.

8. headaches and migraines 
Poor dental health can cause headaches and migraines. Studies have shown that poor oral hygiene can lead to bacterial overgrowth in the mouth, which can cause headaches and migraines.

9. Kidneys 
Oral bacteria can damage the kidneys. Bacterial infections of the gums and teeth can travel to other body parts, including the kidneys, leading to inflammation and damaged kidney tissue over time.

10. Cancer 
Poor oral hygiene is linked to certain types of cancer. Research suggests that poor dental hygiene can increase the risk of certain types of cancer, such as mouth and throat cancer.

To maintain good overall health, taking care of your teeth and gums is essential. Brush and floss regularly, see your dentist for checkups and cleanings, and eat a healthy diet. You must check your oral health at the best Dental Hospital to get the best treatment. Call Champion dentistry clinic for your dental concerns, as they are among the best clinics in Philadelphia. You can visit Champion dentistry clinic and book your appointment today.