3 Unexpected Ways Oral Hygiene Effects Your Health

Did you know, over 92% of American adults between the ages of 20-64 have cavities? Whereas nearly 30% of these people suffer from untreated tooth decay. Despite being warned about the importance of oral care, most Americans aren’t paying much attention to their teeth and gums.

Poor oral hygiene does not only affect our oral health, but it can lead to some very unexpected health issues as well. Some of these include the following.

• Heart Disease: You may be surprised to learn that the bacteria that cause severe gum disease known as periodontitis is directly linked to an increased risk of heart disease. The bacteria triggers inflammation in the blood vessels by moving freely through the bloodstream. These changes in inflammation can promote atherosclerosis, which, in turn, causes heart disease.
• Diabetes: Diabetes and gum disease are directly correlated to each other. The inflammation from gum disease can worsen blood sugar control. On the other hand, poor sugar control increases the risk of gum disease. If you have diabetes, it’s essential to understand the importance of oral health in controlling it. Even if you don’t have diabetes, poor oral health can increase your risk of it.
• Depression: There is a sufficient risk between oral health and depression as well. Inflammation caused by poor oral health can contribute to the biological process that promotes depression and low mood. This means that the worse the condition of your gum disease, the worse mood problems you may suffer from.

Therefore, it is crucial to take care of your oral health to avoid these issues and improve your overall oral health. To learn more or to make an appointment at Meadows Family Dentistry, please contact our Castle Rock, Colorado, general dental office.