Illnesses and Disease
Just as the link between oral health and general health is direct, so is the link between gum disease and other illnesses. Gum disease can be averted when your oral health is taken care of through a daily regimen of brushing and flossing, and biannual visits to have your teeth cleaned by your dentist. If the ever-present bacteria in the mouth is allowed to get the upper hand, and gets into the bloodstream through bleeding gums, there is an increased risk of:
- Alzheimer’s
- Liver and kidney failure
- Heart disease
- Hypertension
- Respiratory illnesses
- Stroke
Researchers have also been examining links to pancreatic and breast cancer.
A holistic approach to dentistry looks at keeping one aspect of your health well so that your other systems will benefit. Besides extreme issues, like disease, one or more missing teeth may impact what you eat and how well you can eat. Reducing the chance of, or fixing, these dental issues can keep you healthy throughout your days.
You most likely understand how eating well and getting exercise will keep you feeling good. Understanding how your teeth and gums play their role in your overall health can help you to keep on making good decisions.
If you would like to learn more about how holistic dentistry helps your overall health, contact a holistic dentist in your area.
