Often people question the connection between oral health and overall health of a person. Many researchers have claimed that oral health does, in fact, have a direct impact on your overall health. Apart from having clean teeth and gums, maintaining your oral health can go a long way in keeping your whole body healthy. Emergency dentists in Sherwood Park agree on this. Are you still wondering how oral health impacts your overall health? Well, here are a few factors in which your oral health plays a key role.

Diabetes

Diabetic patients have a tough time managing their blood sugar levels. Poor oral hygiene contributes to this difficulty. When you have poor oral health, your gum tissues can get inflamed, or you may suffer from periodontal diseases. Inflamed gums and periodontal diseases make it hard for your body to control blood sugar which eventually contributes to diabetic problems. Also, diabetic patients are more prone to periodontal diseases.

Cardiovascular Diseases

When you do not maintain proper oral hygiene, the bacterial build-up in your gums increases. This bacteria can eventually enter your bloodstream and make its way to your heart via your arteries. This condition is known as atherosclerosis. In atherosclerosis, the artery hardens up and a blockage forms inside the artery due to plaque buildup. Another condition experienced by people is the inflammation of the inner lining of the heart, also known as endocarditis.

Impact on Pregnancy

Though not commonly known to happen, a few researches have also been able to link poor dental health with complications in pregnancy. Gum diseases such as periodontitis can, in rare cases, lead to premature birth.

Respiratory Problems

You may not be able to connect dental problems with respiratory problems, but there is an indirect connection. Experts have stated that periodontal diseases can cause infection in your lungs if not treated for a long period. Periodontal diseases are caused by bacterial build up in your gums. This bacterial presence in your mouth comes in direct contact with the air you breathe, thereby causing you to breathe the bacteria.

Brain Diseases

Without proper oral health, you might suffer from gum diseases such as gingivitis. Gingivitis can be very harmful if untreated. Gingivitis bacteria can make its way to your brain through the nerves or bloodstream and can trigger brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.

Now that you are aware of the different dangerous kinds of diseases which can happen due to bad oral health, maintaining oral health has become all the more important. So, ensure that you practice proper flossing and brushing habits, and visit your trusted emergency dentist in Sherwood Park regularly.