Periodontal Health and How It Affects Your Whole Body
Posted on 6/8/2020 by Dick Hikade, DDS |
 Periodontal disease is a serious oral health issue that starts with an accumulation of plaque and bacteria on your teeth. When gum disease starts, it is barely noticeable, and can often go unnoticed. As it progresses, it only continues to worsen, and can ultimately lead to loose teeth and tooth loss. Taking care of your mouth with regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits help to prevent periodontal disease, keeping your mouth healthy. Periodontal disease is commonly thought to be a disease that only affects your mouth. The truth, however, is that it can affect the health of your whole body. Preventing gum disease is not only good for your oral health, but it is also good for your whole body health. Sunnyside Dentistry can help.
Respiratory Health
There have been links between the health of your mouth and your respiratory health. When you have gum disease, there is an accumulation of harmful oral bacteria in your mouth. If you breathe through your mouth, you inhale some of these bacteria into your lungs. Your lungs are a warm, moist environment that is perfect for promoting bacterial growth. Once the bacteria begin to take hold, they can lead to issues such as pneumonia. They can also worsen lung conditions such as asthma or COPD. Keeping your mouth healthy can prevent, or lessen the severity of, certain lung issues.
Whole Body Health
When you have periodontal disease, bacteria cause your gums to become irritated and inflamed. The tissue pulls away from your gums, forming pockets. The bacteria are then able to work their way under the gum line. With more advanced stages of periodontal disease, bacteria can even enter into your bloodstream. Once there, they begin traveling throughout your body. As they do, your immune system sends inflammatory responses. This can significantly increase your risk for health issues such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, stroke and certain types of cancer such as pancreatic cancer. Taking good care of your mouth can help to keep these issues at bay and reduce your risk of developing these complications in the first place.
Mental Health
When you look good, you feel good. When you have periodontal disease, you may not feel very good about yourself. Periodontal disease causes gum recession, chronic bad breath, loose teeth, and even tooth loss. All of these issues can make you self-conscious. This can significantly impact your social life and your mental well-being. By taking good care of your mouth, you maintain a beautiful, healthy smile. This can help you to feel good about yourself and give you a boost of confidence.
Preventing periodontal disease is essential for protecting the health of your mouth as well as your whole body. For more information, call Sunnyside Dentistry today at (503) 451-5104.
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