{"id":19723,"date":"2022-06-22T10:22:38","date_gmt":"2022-06-22T15:22:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/thepapergown.zocdoc.com\/?p=19723"},"modified":"2024-05-21T15:32:20","modified_gmt":"2024-05-21T20:32:20","slug":"why-good-oral-health-can-reduce-the-chance-of-serious-illness","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/blog\/guides\/why-good-oral-health-can-reduce-the-chance-of-serious-illness\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Good Oral Health Can Reduce the Chance of Serious Illness"},"content":{"rendered":"

When we talk about oral health, we’re talking about your teeth, tongue, gums and other structures in your mouth. Basically, everything you use to eat, talk, smile and frown. Maintaining good oral health does more than give you a beautiful smile. Interestingly, taking good care of your mouth can also reduce your chances for serious illness.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The first signs of oral health concerns vary. Symptoms may include bad breath, bleeding gums, and pain. One of the most common ailments is periodontal disease, more frequently known as gum disease. People who have gum disease have an <\/span>increased risk<\/span><\/a> for developing heart disease and other cardiovascular health issues. <\/span>Almost half of adults over the age of 30<\/span><\/a> have some form of gum disease.<\/span><\/p>\n

Certain conditions and habits <\/span>increase your chances<\/span><\/a> of developing gum disease. Poor oral health, faulty fillings, dry mouth and conditions that compromise the effectiveness of your immune system are common culprits. Lifestyle choices like smoking and diets high in sugar and alcohol also play a role in causing gum disease and other oral health issues. Even your genes can make an impact on your oral health.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Overall, while you can’t avoid every factor that might compromise your dental health, practicing good hygiene and and <\/span>seeing a dentist regularly<\/span><\/a> can greatly reduce your risk. Here\u2019s more information about how good oral health reduces your chance of serious illness.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Eliminating bacteria buildup helps prevent cardiovascular disease<\/h3>\n

Bacteria contributes to most oral health issues. Various bacteria cause <\/span>gum disease<\/span>, which occurs when your gums pull away from your teeth due to plaque buildup. Brushing your teeth prevents this by cleaning away plaque and other debris. Without regular brushing and dental care, the accumulation of different bacteria can eventually cause cavities and infection.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Regular care by a dental professional gives your teeth a deep clean and flags any potential health concerns. In addition to cleaning away plaque, they also <\/span>remove hardened tartar<\/a>, which can be especially hard to take care of on your own. <\/span>Visiting your dental care team routinely, in conjunction with brushing and flossing as directed, is scientifically proven to prevent gum disease.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

If left untreated, poor oral health can <\/span>cause significant problems<\/span><\/a> in other parts of your body. Bacteria can enter your bloodstream, cause inflammation or even release harmful chemicals. This can lead to several health concerns, including:<\/span><\/p>\n