Poor oral health is associated with other chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease. Oral disease is also associated with risky behaviors, such as tobacco use and consumption of sugary foods and beverages. If your gums are infected or inflamed, those bacteria can be transferred to your lungs. This can lead to respiratory infections, pneumonia, or even bronchitis.
If you have poor oral health, you are at risk of cardiovascular disease. Bacteria from infected gums enter the bloodstream and can cause the arteries to build up plaque. This can put you at risk of having a heart attack. Diabetics are more likely to have infected gums than those without diabetes.
This can make it difficult to control diabetes due to the lack of regulation of blood sugar levels. Gum disease can cause higher blood sugar levels and this can put a person at risk of developing diabetes. Dental and oral health is an essential part of your overall health and well-being. Poor oral hygiene can lead to tooth decay and gum disease, and has also been linked to heart disease, cancer and diabetes.
If you have poor oral health, you have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. Bacteria from infected gums enter the bloodstream and can cause inflammation in the heart vessels and infection in the heart valves. This is especially dangerous if you have pre-existing conditions, such as congestive heart failure. Although rare, the combination can cause infectious or bacterial endocarditis, an inflammation of the lining of the heart.
The first step is to learn about oral health, the link between oral health and total body health. Tell your dentist about the medications you are taking and about changes in your general health, especially if you have recently become ill or if you have a chronic condition, such as diabetes. Based on current research, you should strive to prevent gum disease, the main connection between poor dental health and general health problems. A dental bridge is made up of two supporting crowns on either side of the space, which then hold the intermediate artificial teeth in place.
A dental chart, also called a periodontal table, is where your dental health professional records the condition of your teeth and gums. Compared to women, men are less likely to brush their teeth twice a day, floss regularly, and seek preventive dental care. Many patients who have poor oral health also have kidney disease, which can lead to kidney failure if left untreated. If a woman has gum disease, this can cause infertility problems and can make it difficult for a woman to conceive or have a healthy pregnancy.
Normally, the body's natural defenses and good oral health care, such as daily brushing and flossing, keep bacteria under control. Taking good care of your teeth and mouth can keep your body healthy and can also help prevent serious problems in the future. Mayo Clinic offers consultations in Arizona, Florida and Minnesota and at Mayo Clinic Health System centers. If you take certain medications that dry out your mouth, you're also at greater risk of dental problems.
When the immune system is healthy, the body can normally defend itself against oral bacteria in the bloodstream.
