You may not realize just how much your oral health truly impacts your overall health. From your digestive system to your heart health, here are just some of the ways that your dental health can influence the rest of your body.
Immunity
A strong immune system helps ward off infection. Smoking or ailments like HIV/AIDS significantly reduce your body’s ability to ward off plaque bacteria, making it more likely for you to develop gum disease and tooth decay. This can lead to tooth loss.
Reproduction
Your reproductive health is dependent on your oral health. When you swallow plaque bacteria, it can enter your bloodstream and lead to delivering babies prematurely or with low birth weight.
Digestion
Chewing is the first step of the digestive process, so it’s no surprise that your teeth play a role in it! If you don’t maintain proper oral hygiene, you are more likely to swallow plaque bacteria every time you drink or eat. By doing this, you are increasing your chances of developing an infection every time.
Hormones
Your saliva contains a ton of information about your health. If you suffer from dry mouth, however, you may not be able to detect any toxins or imbalances in your body as easily as you could with normal saliva production. Saliva also helps keep your teeth bacteria-free naturally, so low saliva production means that you are more likely to develop tooth decay.
Heart Health
Studies have revealed that the bacteria found in plaque produces the same toxins that can clog your heart arteries and lead to heart disease.
Wholistic Health Care
Who knew that brushing and flossing twice a day could have such a major impact on the rest of your body? It’s important to keep your teeth and gums healthy by practicing consistent dental habits, eating a balanced, healthy diet, and also visiting your dentist twice a year for cleanings and examinations. If you have any questions about your dental health and its impact on your overall health, do not hesitate to ask our staff at Jones Creek Family Dentistry. Contact us to schedule an appointment today!
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