Did you know that a healthy smile can lead to a healthier you? Taking good care of your teeth and gums can help prevent oral health problems and lower your risk of developing certain chronic diseases. New research suggests that the health of your mouth impacts your overall health and wellbeing. Regular dental visits with your Los Angeles dentist at Crystal Dental Center can not only lead to healthier smile, but a healthier you!
The Link Between Oral Health and Chronic Diseases
Oral health refers to the health of the teeth, gums, and the entire oral-facial system that allows us to smile, speak, and chew. Some of the most common diseases that impact our oral health include tooth decay (cavities) and gum (periodontal) disease. When plaque builds around the teeth and gums, a whole host of problems can occur including the erosion of tooth enamel, gum inflammation, and tooth loss.
Because people with oral health issues have trouble chewing and swallowing, their bodies often lack the nutrients needed to maintain optimal health. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, there is a relationship between gum disease and health complications such as a stroke and heart disease. Studies have shown the link between poor oral health and an increased risk for chronic health issues including:
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Dementia
- Oral Cancer
- Lung and Respiratory Infections
- Strokes
The Link Between Oral Health and Other Health Problems
If you don’t take care of your teeth and gums, you not only increase your risk for developing specific chronic diseases, but you also increase your risk for developing a variety of other health and social complications including:
- Complications During Pregnancy: Women with gum disease show higher incidences of pre-term, low birth-weight babies.
- Facial Pain and Joint Health: Gum disease can cause pain in the jaw and facial joints that can lead to severe migraines.
- Low Self Esteem and Delayed Social Development: Oral health problems can affect a person’s feelings of self-esteem and may affect children’s social development.
How to Maintain Good Oral Health
To keep your oral health and overall health in pristine condition, be sure to practice good oral hygiene habits at home. These include brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, eating a nutrient-rich diet, avoiding excess sugar, drinking water, and avoiding smoking.
Seeing a dentist regularly helps to keep your mouth in top shape and allows your dentist to watch for developments that may lead to other health issues.
For further information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Moradzadeh please contact Crystal Dental Center at 213.748.8448 or visit www.CrystalDentalCenters.com to learn more.
