You may think that keeping your teeth healthy only affects your teeth. However, oral health has influence on your entire body. While not brushing or flossing does lead to bad breath, potential periodontal disease, and more, dental care is important to keep your whole being happy and healthy!

Heart Disease and Stroke

You probably didn’t know that poor oral health leads to higher risk of heart disease and stroke. People with periodontal disease (also known as tooth loss due to bone deterioration) are twice as likely to develop heart disease. The bacteria and plaque in your mouth stemming from periodontal disease leads to the narrowing of your arteries, which is terrible for your heart. Studies have shown that tooth loss, cavities, and gum disease are almost as good a predictor of heart disease as cholesterol levels are. When your Cartoid Artery becomes blocked because of these bacterium, you are at an increased risk of stroke.

Lungs

The bacteria and plaque that can enter your bloodstream can also affect your lungs. They can travel through the bloodstream and attack your lungs. The respiratory system reacts negatively to periodontal bacteria, aggravating your lungs. This is particularly true for people with already problematic respiratory systems.

Females and Males

Both men and women are at risk of problems stemming from poor dental health. Aside from issues females and males can both face, there are specifics to the gender. With men, poor dental health is problematic for your sex life. Due to the bacteria entering your bloodstream, men with periodontal disease and overall bad dental hygiene are seven times more likely to experience erectile dysfunction. For women, insufficient oral health could potentially harm your child. Mothers are seven times more likely to give birth to a premature or low birth weight infant if they do not practice good dental hygiene. If you have been slacking in your dental hygiene, call Chicago Smile Design today to schedule an appointment! Courtesy of: PositiveMed

Back to Resources