Did you know that your Inglewood dentist can tell you more about how your oral health is directly linked to your overall health? If your teeth and gums aren’t properly taken care of, your overall health might suffer as a consequence, especially your respiratory and cardiovascular systems.
While the chances of ending up in the hospital due to oral complications are rare, the longer you neglect a problem in your teeth or gums, the greater this risk becomes. The human body is a multifaceted interconnected system, and infections in your mouth could potentially spread into other parts of your body.
A 2019 study by the Public Health Agency of Canada found that poor oral health is linked to several chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory diseases. In fact, the study revealed that individuals with periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease, were 1.4 times more likely to have a heart attack and 1.6 times more likely to develop diabetes. Furthermore, individuals with severe gum disease are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Substance abuse can also be detrimental to your oral health. According to Statistics Canada, excessive smoking and alcohol consumption increases your risk of developing oral cancer by 5-10 times. Smoking is also the cause of bad breath, teeth staining, gum disease, and weakened enamel, and it can even slow down the healing process in your mouth.
Taking care of your mouth ought to be a priority when it comes to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. After all, your mouth needs proper care just like any other part of your body. The best way to stop complications before they happen is to visit your dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups.