Overall Health and your Mouth - Did You Know?!

Have you ever thought about skipping your next dental check up and cleaning? Does it seem like there are a million other important things to do instead of visiting the dentist?

You may want to think wisely about the next time you postpone your visit with a dental professional. Your mouth is a window to the rest of your body, and, research has shown that an unhealthy mouth can contribute to many serious health conditions.

Periodontal disease (gum disease/infection) and tooth decay (cavities) are chronic conditions. Scientific research has shown that the microorganisms (ex: bacteria and plaque) from long-standing gum disease and tooth infections can enter your blood stream or airways and cause complications in other parts of your body. Evidence shows that the type of bacteria in your mouth, if left untreated, can cause an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes and respiratory disorders. If you are diabetic, it is also very difficult to control your blood sugar levels and control periodontal (gum) disease as people with diabetes have increased length of time for their body to heal from infections.

So, what does all this mean? The bottom line is, the mouth plays a critical role in determining what’s going on with the rest of your body. With proper, professional dental cleanings, and effective oral hygiene at home, you are able to disrupt and control the bacteria in your mouth. Maintaining good oral hygiene involves collaboration between a Registered Dental Hygienist, a licenced Dentist and you, the patient, who needs to put effort into taking care of your mouth at home.

It is important to remember that with regular, professional oral care, gum disease can be prevented, controlled or even reversed at early stages. If taking five minutes out of your morning and night time routine to brush your teeth, floss, brush your tongue, use mouth rinse or any other regimens recommended by your Dentist/Hygienist reduces your risk of developing a heart attack, stroke, respiratory disease and avoids premature labour/delivery it’s a no brainer that this should be part of your everyday routine. It is also critical that you visit a Dental Hygienist at least every 6 months to professionally remove and reduce the number of bacteria in your mouth. No only that, but dental professionals perform head/neck and oral cancer screenings, monitor periodontal disease and educate/counsel you on nutrition, oral disease prevention and risks of using tobacco.

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