No one needs to tell you that what your put in your mouth greatly affects the condition of your body. You can choose between fresh vegetables and whole grains or potato chips and white bread. You can choose to smoke—or not. But did you know that the condition of your mouth itself could also influence the health of your body? At Distinctive Dentistry, Hiram dentists Dr. Jack Bickford and Dr. Bobby Shirley provide preventive dental services so you can have a healthy mouth and a healthy body.
The Oral-Systemic Connection
The oral-systemic connection is the terminology dentists, doctors and researchers use when referring to the link between the mouth and body. Specifically, they’re talking about the bacteria in your mouth that cause periodontal disease. The beginning and advanced stages of gum disease—gingivitis and periodontitis, respectively—are bacterial infections that can develop as a result of inadequate brushing and flossing. When you brush with fluoride twice a day and floss between your teeth at least once a day, you remove plaque, which is that clear and sticky film in everyone’s mouth. Bacteria live in plaque.
If not removed with daily oral hygiene care, plaque builds up between your teeth and along the gum line. Eventually, plaque hardens to become tartar, or calculus. At this point, the bacteria are literally stuck and need to be removed with professional periodontal therapy. Otherwise, the infection known as gum disease sets in; bacteria begin to destroy gum and connective tissue and even bone tissue with time.
Oral Bacteria and the Rest of Your Body
If the bacteria in your mouth only caused trouble there, then that would be bad enough. Unfortunately, however, these same bacteria are linked to a number of bodily diseases and illnesses. The reason is understandable. Gingivitis and periodontitis often cause bleeding gums. When your gums bleed, bacteria have access to your bloodstream and can move to other parts of your body. Similarly, inhaling deeply can draw bacteria into your respiratory system. That’s how the same bacteria that infect your gums can bring illnesses and diseases such as:
- Hypertension
- Heart Attack
- Stroke
- Dementia
- Pneumonia
- Depression
- Pregnancy Complications
Oral Health and Overall Health
In addition to daily brushing and flossing, Drs. Bickford and Shirley strongly recommend twice yearly dental checkups. These visits are not only an opportunity to have your teeth professionally cleaned, but they also give us the chance to examine you gums for signs of periodontal disease. Our hygienists will measure and chart the depths of pockets around your teeth; anything deeper than four millimeters may be indicative of gingivitis. We offer periodontal therapy to help stop the advance of infection and reverse the effects.
Call Your Hiram Dentists Today
If you’re due for a dental checkup, of if you’ve noticed that your gums are reddened and bleed easily, then contact Distinctive Dentistry today to schedule an appointment.
