The Mouth-Body Connection

More and more studies are showing that oral health and general health are more linked than we had previously thought.  This certainly makes sense when you think about it, everything is connected after all!

Bacteria from the mouth can cause infection in other areas of the body, even more so when the immune system has been compromised by disease or medical treatments.  The mouth is home to hundreds of different types of bacteria.  Many help to maintain a healthy mouth, while others are linked with disease.

Every time you swallow, these bacteria are introduced to the rest of the body.  If you have these “bad bacteria” in your mouth, you are exposing the rest of your body to inflammation.  Inflammation is a major risk factor in developing disease.

Is it Ever Too Late to Start Flossing?

The American Dental Association and American Heart Association have confirmed that there is a link between gum disease and heart disease.  People who have one of these diseases are more likely to have the other.  In fact, research has shown that those with gum disease have two to three times the chance of having a heart attack.  So routine flossing and dental visits may literally help you reduce the risk of heart disease!

Diabetes and Gums

There has also been a link proven between gum disease and diabetes.  People with diabetes are at increased risk for developing gum disease, and improving the health of your gums can improve your control of your blood sugar!  Gum disease has also been linked to other systemic illnesses including osteoporosis, respiratory illnesses, cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis.

At Energetic Smile, we remain at the cutting edge of this research.  Our goal is to help you get to a healthier you!  Ask your dental team about these effects at your next appointment.  Get healthier with us today!  It all starts by calling us at (714) 594-7009.