Your oral health is about a lot more than just the health of your teeth, gums, and mouth. If you don’t take good care of your mouth, it could lead to disastrous consequences for other parts of your body. Harmful bacteria can build-up in your mouth and if not cleaned properly, those bacteria can get into your bloodstream and cause infection and inflammation just about anywhere.
To be sure you are taking good care of your oral health and to prevent further health complications, be sure to see your Royal Oak, MI dentist regularly. We like to see our patients for checkups and cleanings every six months. You can call our office today at 248-712-1522 (Royal Oak) 248-963-1969 (New Hudson) 586-685-7937 (Sterling Heights) to schedule an appointment at North Oaks Dental and see what we can do for you. In the meantime, learn more about some of the serious health issues that are linked to bad oral health.

Heart Disease & Oral Health

There is a strong connection between poor oral health and a higher risk of heart disease. Not brushing and flossing your teeth daily can cause your gums to become inflamed. Brushing and flossing are important because they help get rid of the harmful bacteria that accumulate on your teeth.
When bacteria linger on your teeth and in your mouth, they will eventually travel to your bloodstream where they contribute to the build-up of plaque in your arteries. When that plaque in your arteries hardens, a process known as atherosclerosis, it is incredibly serious. A build-up of plaque in the arteries leads to problems with blood flow as well as heart blockages, which then increases your chances of having a heart attack.
Additionally, the damage being done to your arteries and blood vessels can cause hypertension and put you at a higher risk for strokes.

Diabetes & Oral Health

Patients with diabetes are already at a higher risk for infection, including infections of the gums that cause gum disease. Gum disease often then makes diabetes harder to control.
It is especially important for diabetics to take good care of their teeth, gums, and mouth, to prevent dangerous complications.

Cancer & Oral Health

It is well-known that poor oral health practices like smoking or chewing tobacco can lead to oral and throat cancers. But there are other types of cancer that have been linked to gum disease as well. Those with poor oral health have been shown to have a much higher risk for kidney cancer, pancreatic cancer, and blood cancers.

Other Potential Health Problems Related to Bad Oral Health

  • Pregnancy complications
  • Infertility
  • Respiratory infections
  • Dementia
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Kidney disease
  • Rheumatoid arthritis

Prevention

To prevent serious health issues caused by poor oral health, practice good oral hygiene and request your visits to our Royal Oak dental office for regular checkups and cleanings.
The key things to remember about good oral hygiene include:

  • Brush your teeth for two minutes at least twice a day
  • Floss your teeth daily
  • Avoid cigarettes or other tobacco products
  • Use toothpaste that contains fluoride
  • Rinse with a mouthwash that contains fluoride
  • Limit your consumption of sugary foods and drinks
  • Eat a well-balanced diet