How Are Your Oral and Overall Health Connected?

Did you know that by caring for your teeth and maintaining good oral health, you’re contributing to your overall health and well-being? At Indigo Dentistry, we emphasize the importance of preventive dental care to enhance your health and quality of life. The following is a look at how maintaining a healthy smile impacts your overall well-being.

How Are Your Oral and Overall Health Interconnected? 

Your mouth and body are interconnected in many ways. Chronic inflammation caused by periodontal (gum) disease can often lead to systemic problems. Additionally, harmful oral bacteria from oral infections can enter the bloodstream, leading to an elevated risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke.

Aside from heart health, the following are additional ways your oral health can impact your overall well-being: 

  • Diabetes: Untreated gum disease can make it more challenging to control your blood sugar levels, while diabetes can increase the risk of gum inflammation and infection. This destructive cycle can seriously impact both your oral health and your overall well-being.  
  • Respiratory Problems: Harmful oral bacteria, if left unchecked, can enter the lungs and increase the risk of respiratory disease. This can result in complications like pneumonia, especially in patients with chronic health conditions or a compromised immune system. 
  • Chronic Systemic Diseases: Periodontal disease is a source of chronic inflammation. This has been linked to an increased risk of health concerns, including rheumatoid arthritis, certain cancers, Alzheimer’s disease, and other systemic conditions. 
  • Pregnancy Complications: Hormonal changes occurring during pregnancy can increase the risk of developing gum disease. This has been linked to pregnancy complications, including preterm births and low birth weights.   

How Does Your Smile Reveal Signs of Systemic Health Concerns? 

Your dentist often serves as the first line of defense against many systemic illnesses. During your twice-yearly dental exams, Dr. Collier can often uncover early warning signs of various health concerns. Mouth sores, lumps, unusual discoloration, infections, or even gum paleness can point to health concerns, such as autoimmune diseases, oral cancer, diabetes, or anemia. Keeping up with your regular dental exams and cleanings can help uncover a host of serious health concerns, allowing for prompt treatment and ensuring the best possible outcomes. 

Caring for Your Smile at Home

Aside from keeping up with your regular dental exams and cleanings, it’s important to care for your smile at home. We encourage daily brushing and flossing, limiting your intake of sugary and acidic foods, and maintaining a healthy, balanced diet rich in essential nutrients to support your oral and overall health. 

If you notice any changes in your mouth or if you have any concerns between dental visits, don’t wait. Contact Indigo Dentistry to schedule an appointment. Dr. Collier and her team will address any oral health problems as they develop, safeguarding your oral health and overall well-being. 

Preventive Dental Care Near Me in Cedar Hill, TX

Understanding the oral and overall health connection is a reminder of how important it is to care for your smile. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene practices and visiting Indigo Dentistry for regular dental exams and cleanings are key to keeping your smile healthy and safeguarding your overall well-being. Dr. Collier and her team are here to support your oral health every step of the way. Call us at (972) 779-0300 to schedule your appointment or request one online today!