The inside of your mouth is the perfect place for bacteria to thrive.
Its dark, warm, wet and the foods and drinks you consume provide nutrition to them.
When harmful bacteria builds up around your teeth and gums, you are at risk of developing gum disease .
In brief, it’s inflammation and infection in the gums and bone that surround your teeth.
Such conditions may influence the rest of your body.
Early signs to look out for unhealthy gums:
- Swollen gums
- Red or tender gums
- Bleeding of gums occasionally
- Bad breath
Long Term effects of unhealthy gums:
- Teeth becoming loose
- Gums coming down
- Roots visible
- Decrease in bone level.
- Entry to blood stream.
Bacteria and their toxic byproducts move from the surface of the gums and teeth into the blood stream, where they can spread to different organs.
Few of the notable diseases are -
-
Diabetes
Diabetes and periodontal disease have most direct evidence of correlation.
Inflammation in the body due to gingivitis / periodontitis can lead to higher blood glucose (blood sugar) levels—which can contribute to higher risk of diabetes. -
Dementia
Bacteria that are found in mouth actually have been identified in the brain tissue of patients with Alzheimer’s.
In recent review, scientists noted that oral bacteria especially those related to periodontitis could affect brain directly or indirectly due to chronic systemic inflammation that reaches the brain.
Deficits in chewing ability due to tooth loss may also contribute to the decline in cognitive function of the brain. -
Cardiovascular Disease
There is significant link between periodontitis and heart attack, stroke, plaque buildup in arteries and other cardiovascular conditions.
Evidence suggests that periodontal bacteria from mouth may travel to arteries in vascular disease patients , potentially playing role in development of the disease.
Key Takeaways
- Total body care, including your mouth, is essential when managing diabetes, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s disease ,some cancers and many other ailments of the body.
- Arm yourself with preventative dental visits to minimize complications and potentially save money in the long run.
Always remember,
‘A HEALTHY MOUTH LEADS TO HEALTHY BODY’
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Dr.Dimple Bhatiya /Citrus Dental does not make any representation or warranties with respect to the accuracy, applicability, fitness, or completeness of the Content.
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References
- American Diabetes Association
- National Institute on Aging
- Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease
- National Institute of Heath
- Medical News Today
- The New York Times
- Medical News Today