Effects of Oral Health on Overall Health in Windmere
Oral health affects your overall health, as bacteria in your mouth can enter the body through saliva and gums. This can create harmful inflammation and infections throughout the body and in vital organs, placing your health at serious risk.
Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and arthritis are all associated with inflammation and poor oral health. Also, the plaque on teeth is the same plaque found in arteries, which can lead to an increased risk of heart disease.
Poor Dental Hygiene Leads to Gum Disease and Tooth Decay
After bacteria feed on food particles left in the mouth, they emit an acidic substance that causes tooth decay. Bacteria also stick to teeth when allowed to pool into a substance called plaque. When plaque invades the gum line, the body’s immune system causes inflammation. Inflamed gums are often red, swollen, and bleed easily. These are often the early signs of gingivitis.
If gingivitis is untreated, then a more serious form of gum disease can result. Periodontitis is a condition where bacteria have left layers of plaque and tartar beneath the gums. Tartar is plaque that has calcified and it stubbornly sticks to teeth and their roots. This causes the gums to begin to recede and develop deep pockets. Teeth become loose and can be at risk of falling out.
Restore Oral Health with Good Oral Hygiene
Maintaining a proper oral health routine and seeking professional dental care help keep teeth and gums remain in optimal condition. Twice daily brushings and flossing removes harmful bacteria, and helps prevent plaque and tartar from accumulating. Bi-annual visits to the dentist for professional cleanings allow the hygienist to remove plaque and tartar from hard to reach places. The procedure of tooth scaling and root planing remove harmful bacteria so gums can stay firmly attached to dentition.
The early stage of gum disease, gingivitis, can be completely reversed with proper oral health care and professional cleanings. If gum disease advances to periodontitis, then the doctor may need to administer antibiotics and perform surgery to access the areas deep in the gums that are infected. Laser treatments are also used to disinfect the gums, so the gums can reattach to teeth.
Call Lakeside Family Dentistry in Windmere to Achieve Optimal Oral Health
Keeping your teeth healthy for a lifetime is possible with good oral hygiene. Oral hygiene can also reduce the complications associated with many other health ailments like heart disease, arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, and diabetes. Keep your teeth, gums, and entire body health by giving Dr. Christopher Seppi a call today. He serves people in Windmere and surrounding communities.