The connection between oral health and general health may not be as apparent to most people. However, oral health has a more significant impact on your health than people may realize. Taking care of your teeth not only gives you a great smile but it helps improve your overall health.
The mouth is full of bacteria from the food and drinks we eat; oral infections happen when we forget to brush and floss our teeth, leading to tooth decay, gum disease, and other common infections. Some conditions are preventable with good hygiene, but others can stick around for some time and require care from a dentist.
It isn’t typical for a tooth infection to spread to other parts of the body; however, consequences can be severe if it happens. If you experience the following symptoms, it can be a sign that the infection has spread.
- Pain in the mouth
- Swelling of the face, neck and cheeks
- Itching of the skin
- Nausea
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Severe headaches
- Difficulty breathing
- Confusion
It is essential to practice good oral hygiene and see your dentist regularly. Some common and severe health problems that oral infections can cause are:
Cardiovascular Disease
Poor oral health puts you at risk for heart disease. If your gums are inflamed due to bacteria, this can lead to periodontal disease. This bacteria can travel through the bloodstream, causing plaque to build up and harden in the arteries. Heart blockage can increase the chances of a person having a heart attack. The damages to the arteries and blood vessels can also increase the risk of strokes.
Diabetes
Periodontitis is the inflammation of gums, a severe dental problem where the gums are so swollen they start to pull away from the teeth and form gaps. The gaps can become infected, and for someone with diabetes, this makes it difficult for the body to absorb insulin medication.
Pregnancy Complications
Expectant mothers need to practice good oral hygiene. Hormonal changes in the body during pregnancy can cause oral infections much easier in women. Any infection in the body can increase the risks of pregnancy complications.
Bad oral hygiene is connected to many other types of health problems. At Health First Dental, we are one of Calgary’s best biological or holistic dental offices; our team practices the best elements of conventional dentistry, focusing on the connection between oral health and the entire body. Book an appointment today! Let us take care of your oral health and your overall health.