The link between oral and overall health has been well-documented. In simple terms, when there is bacteria in the oral cavity, it can be carried throughout the body via the bloodstream. As a result, caring for your teeth and gums not only prevents cavities and gum disease, but it can help reduce the risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other systemic inflammatory conditions. Here, our team at Well Rooted Dentistry explores the oral-systemic connection and explains how preventative dental care can keep your overall health in check.
Why is the oral-systemic connection important?
In today’s world of specialized medicine, practitioners can sometimes focus too narrowly on their niche. Doctors can sometimes be inadequately trained in dentistry, but doctors and dentists should work in conjunction for best results. The reason for this is because oral and bodily health are closely intertwined. The oral-systemic connection is important because it can cause:
- Oral transmission of infections.
- Cardiovascular disease.
- Pregnancy risks during periodontal disease.
- Poor overall health and well-being.
- Higher risk of infection.
- Oral bacteria, causing respiratory infections.
Clearly, maintaining proper oral hygiene is key to a healthy body. Your mouth and face can also act as a sign of disease, so it’s important to maintain the area by practicing a good diet and avoiding tobacco. When you recognize the importance of the oral-systemic connection, you can take the necessary steps to safeguard your mouth and body from disease. This includes seeing your dentist regularly for a check-up, as well as regularly brushing and flossing.
Gum Disease and its Role in the Oral-Systemic Connection
Periodontal disease has long been associated with several other diseases, but only recently has this connection been made clearer. Recent research suggests inflammation from gum disease may be a responsible factor in the onset of other chronic inflammatory diseases, such as:
- Heart attack.
- Stroke.
- Diabetes.
- And more.
Although direct causality has not been proven, it is known that periodontal disease increases risk of these diseases. Maintaining a healthy mouth can help you maintain a healthy body, risk-free.
Education’s Role in the Oral-Systemic Connection
One important role of a dental professional is to advise special populations, such as infants and pregnant women. In children, this involves encouraging getting them used to interacting with a dentist and providing nutritional advice when appropriate. In pregnant women, it means dispelling common myths, as well as advising on changes in the mouth and nutrition.
A skilled dental provider also pays special attention to the elderly, reminding them of the impact tobacco and diet have on oral health. From early on, education is an important factor in helping patients understand and improve their oral health, which has positive overall effects on the body’s health.
The Importance of Prevention at Well-Rooted Dentistry
At our Providence, RI office, our team is equipped to educate you on your body, as well as your mouth. We understand the synergistic nature of health, and know a healthy smile is necessary for a healthy body.
The easiest way to maintain a healthy smile is to visit our practice biannually for regular checkups. Contact us online or call us today at (401) 533-9680 to learn more about how we can help you understand and maintain stellar oral health, and in turn prevent harmful diseases.
