Most people know that neglecting your oral hygiene can lead to bad breath, cavities, and gum disease. But what many people do not realize is that failing to take care of your dental health can lead to health issues in other parts of the body. In this article, we are going to talk about how issues in your teeth and gums can impact other areas of your body.
Heart Disease & Stroke
Gum disease is bad, not only for your gums, but for your heart too. Periodontitis can increase your risk of developing heart disease, or having a stroke. Buy why is that the case? Bacteria that builds up in the gums can travel through the bloodstream to other areas of the body. Thes bacteria can build up in the arteries, causing blood clots, and leading to stroke and various heart conditions.
Cancer
Bacterial build-up in the gums can lead to gum inflammation – this is one of the most common symptoms of gum disease. These bacteria can cause similar reactions to tissues in other areas of the body. Inflammation has long been linked to the development of cancer, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Diabetes
Gum disease and bacteria can also increase a patient’s risk of developing diabetes.
Preventing These Issues
It’s essential to keep up with your oral hygiene – not just for your teeth and gums, but for the rest of your body too. Make sure you’re brushing and flossing daily, and that you visit your dentist on a regular basis.
Bloomington Dental Health
At Smiles for Life, we have the ability to handle all of your family and cosmetic dentistry needs. For decades, we have been providing top-notch dental care to patients in Bloomington, Farmington, and the surrounding Minnesota areas. If you’re having tooth pain, or you just need to schedule a routine check-up and cleaning, don’t hesitate to give us a call. Contact our dental clinic in Bloomington to set up your appointment today!