Oral conditions have an impact on overall health and disease. Taking good care of your mouth, teeth and gums is a worthy goal in and of itself. Good oral and dental hygiene can help prevent bad breath, tooth decay and gum disease and can help you keep your teeth as you get older. When we start thinking about dental health, we’re usually concerned with issues like gingivitis, fillings, crowns, cavities, scaling or root canals.

An unhealthy mouth, especially if you have gum disease, may increase your risk of serious health problems such as heart attack, stroke, diabetes, kidney diseases and preterm labor. Like many areas of the body, your mouth is teeming with bacteria — most of them harmless. Without proper oral hygiene, bacteria can reach levels that might lead to oral infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease.

90% of life threatening illnesses have an oral symptom

People with poor oral health may be more likely to have Atherosclerosis

Endocarditis

Endocarditis is an infection of the inner lining of your heart. Endocarditis typically occurs when bacteria or other germs from another part of your body, such as your mouth, spread through your bloodstream and attach to damaged areas in your heart.

Cardiovascular disease

Poor dental hygiene affects your heart. Some research suggests that heart disease, clogged arteries and stroke might be linked to the inflammation and infections that oral bacteria can cause.

Pregnancy and Birth

Periodontitis has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.

Diabetes

Diabetes reduces the body's resistance to infection — putting the gums at risk. Gum disease appears to be more frequent and severe among people who have diabetes.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis — which causes bones to become weak and brittle — might be linked with periodontal bone loss and tooth loss. Drugs used to treat osteoporosis carry a small risk of damage to the bones of the jaw. Gum diseases is known as periodontal disease.

Alzheimer's disease

Worsening oral health is seen as Alzheimer's disease progresses.

Brush your teeth twice a day and visit your Dentist in Troy and dental hygienist regularly for cleaning and check-ups. It's especially important to look after your teeth and gums.

Still have questions about dental health? To request a consultation with our Dentist in Troy, call Smile Centers at (248) 716 4000.