Research shows that cardiovascular conditions are, in fact, linked to gum disease.
It’s great that you’re on top of your annual physical and top of your kids’ well-child visits. It’s great that you track what you eat and how much you sleep. You’re doing all the right things. But if dental appointments keep sliding to the bottom of the to-do list, you’re missing a meaningful piece of the healthcare puzzle.
Your dentist isn’t just there for your teeth; they are one of the most valuable members of your wellness team.
Caring for your health starts with your smile. Make your dental health a priority by scheduling your next appointment now.
Can Gum Disease Affect Your Heart?
Research suggests that people with gum disease have a significantly higher rate of heart disease and stroke, compared to people with healthy gums.
Scientists are still working to understand exactly how the relationship works. The leading theory is that oral bacteria contribute to arterial inflammation, the swelling and irritation inside the walls of your arteries. The bacteria that causes gum disease builds up along and below the gumline, then enters the bloodstream and travels through your body.
Keeping your gums healthy isn’t just good for your smile; it could be one of the easiest ways to support a healthy heart.
Is Poor Oral Health Linked to Diabetes?
The connection between oral health and diabetes is a two-way street. Uncontrolled blood sugar makes it easy for bacteria to thrive in the mouth. People with diabetes, then, are more susceptible to gum disease. But chronic inflammation from gum disease can also make blood sugar harder to regulate, so untreated periodontal disease can make diabetes more difficult to manage.
Patients who get their gum disease under control could actually see improvements in their blood sugar levels, too.
How Are Oral Health and Pregnancy Connected?
Hormonal changes during pregnancy make your gums more sensitive and more reactive to bacteria. Pregnancy gingivitis is common, and if not treated, can progress into more serious periodontal disease, which research has linked to greater risks of pre-term birth and lower birth weights.
Routine dental care is safe (and highly recommended!) throughout pregnancy. Let your dentist and OB-GYN know what’s going on so they can coordinate your care.
Can Stress Affect Your Oral Health?
Yes. Stress weakens the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off the bacteria responsible for gum disease. Stress is also one of the leading reasons for teeth grinding and clenching, known as bruxism. A lot of patients don’t realize they’re doing it until a dentist points out the wear patterns on their teeth. Bruxism can cause jaw pain, headaches, and cracked teeth and speed up enamel loss.
If you’ve been waking up with jaw soreness or headaches, it’s worth mentioning at your next dental appointment.
Is There a Link Between Oral Health and Memory Loss?
Studies have found a connection between the bacteria associated with gum disease, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and markers found in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients.
Gum disease is not a direct cause of Alzheimer’s. And while research is getting a fuller picture of this connection, the association is strong. A family history of Alzheimer’s is another reason to take your gum health seriously.
Can Poor Oral Health Affect Your Lungs?
Bacteria that live in the mouth can be inhaled into the lungs, where they can contribute to respiratory infections, including pneumonia. Research found that poor oral hygiene leads to a higher risk of developing pneumonia, and patients with existing respiratory conditions like COPD can experience more severe symptoms when oral bacteria enter their airways.
The risk of these respiratory issues increases with age, so continuing with daily oral hygiene and regular professional cleanings as an adult is essential.
Your Dental Visits Are Wellness Visits
Knowing the connection between your oral health and overall wellness changes what a dentist visit means. They’re an investment in your whole-body health.
The Full Heart Dentistry team takes time to understand your full health picture, not just what’s happening with your teeth. If you have a health condition like diabetes or heart disease, or if you are pregnant or planning to be, let us know. That information can help us take better care of you and your oral health.
If it’s been a while since your last visit, we’re here, and we’d love to see you. Make a dental appointment in Rochester, NY, today and make oral care part of your overall wellness plan.