Most people don’t consider their gum health the key to unlocking better overall wellness. However, that’s going to change after you learn how the health of your mouth can have a drastic impact on other areas of your body. Gum disease is one of the most common oral health problems, estimated to affect one out of two adults in the country. Read on to learn how this condition can alter your overall wellness if it goes left untreated.
Gum Health & Physical Wellness
Even though it may not seem like a part of your body as small as your gums could have a major impact on your cardiovascular, respiratory, and other systems in your body, countless studies show that’s actually the case! That’s why it’s crucial to keep up with your at-home oral hygiene routine and visit your dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings.
Heart Health
The primary link between heart health and gum disease is inflammation caused by harmful oral bacteria. Studies have shown that the effects can travel throughout other areas of your body, leading to hardened arteries that makes it more difficult for blood to flow to your heart. This puts you at a higher risk of experiencing a heart attack or severe stroke.
Lung Health
The American Thoracic Society has published studies and findings that show that dental health can play a role in the development and management of lung problems and lung disease. Cavities and gum disease are caused by harmful bacteria that have the ability to travel down to the lungs and cause chronic inflammation. Poor gum health can also make people who have asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder experience more serious symptoms of their condition.
Nutritional Health
One of the more serious signs of gum disease is when permanent teeth become loose. This happens due to the erosion of the supportive bone and tissue that holds them in place, as well as gum recession. When you lose one or more teeth, it can have a drastic effect on what types of food you eat and how well you’re able to chew it to absorb all of the nutrients your body needs to energize.
Emotional Health
Lastly, poor gum health can have a huge impact on your emotional wellness, especially if it leads to tooth loss. Your smile is often the first trait that people notice about you, and if you’re oral health is visibly poor, you may feel self-conscious about letting your grin show. The Academy of General Dentistry conducted a survey and found that 86% of dentists said that social embarrassment was one of the biggest issues that their patients reported after noticeable tooth loss.
Taking care of your gums is a small task to take on, but when you do, you can improve your total-body wellness, making brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist every six months a small price to pay for your health and happiness.
About the Author
Dr. Anthony Giamberardino got his Doctor of Dental Medicine from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in 1985. Since then, he has been providing exceptional, comprehensive dentistry to families in Medford. He is an active member of several professional organizations that help him stay up-to-date with the latest findings, techniques, and technology in the dental field. For questions or to schedule an appointment, visit Giamberardino Dental Care’s website or call 781-396-3800.