How a Healthy Mouth Supports Overall Wellness

Most people know that poor oral hygiene negatively affects the teeth and gingival tissue (aka gums, gum tissue); yet, many are unaware that it can also play a role in an individual’s overall wellness. The best way to maintain good oral health is by brushing and flossing daily. In addition, remember to schedule your biannual dental cleanings at one of Dr. Travis Wilson’s dental offices. Dr. Wilson has offices in Owensboro and Beaver Dam, Kentucky.

Whose Overall Health Can Be Negatively Affected by Poor Oral Hygiene?

According to the most recent report provided by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Oral Health in America: Advances and Challenges, good oral health is vital to the well-being for people of every age.

Poor Dental Hygiene Can Lead To Gum Disease

Just like other parts of the body, the mouth is teeming with bacteria. Although most of these bacteria are harmless, some can cause an individual to develop a variety of diseases that negatively impact their organs.

How Gum Disease May Negatively Affect Vital Organs

An individual who develops gum disease has colonies of bacteria thriving within his or her mouth. These bacteria can enter the bloodstream via damaged gum tissue. Inflamed, sensitive gum tissue, which is a symptom of gum disease, is more likely to have open wounds than healthy gingival tissue. These wounds may result from flossing, brushing and eating crunchy foods. In addition, accidentally biting the cheeks, lips or tongue can provide an area for bacteria to access the bloodstream.

Once the bacteria are traveling throughout the body, the individual’s risk of developing heart disease or a respiratory illness increases. If you have concerns about the health of your mouth, make an appointment with an Owensboro, Kentucky, dentist today.

Which Health Issues Are Linked To Poor Oral Hygiene?

Around the globe, gum disease ranks as the most common chronic inflammatory disease. If bacteria enter the bloodstream, inflammation in other parts of the body is likely. This inflammation can lead to serious health problems.

Health issues linked to poor dental hygiene include:

• Stroke – due to the inflammation and infections the bacteria cause.
• Atherosclerosis – clogged arteries.
• Cardiovascular disease (aka heart disease) – due to atherosclerosis.
• Endocarditis – this refers to an infection in the lining of the valves and chambers of the heart (i.e., endocardium).
• Respiratory diseases, including Pneumonia – while breathing, the bacteria are pulled into the respiratory tract through the mouth, which is how they gain access to the lungs.
• Pregnancy complications – such as a premature birth and a low birth weight.

If you are in the Owensboro or Beaver Dam, Kentucky, area, and you are experiencing mouth pain, bleeding gums or sensitivity, contact Dr. Travis Wilson today. He can determine if you have gum disease, solve the problem at hand, and then help you improve your overall oral health. To request an appointment using the online form, please click here. To schedule an appointment for a consultation with Dr. Wilson, call the Beaver Dam, Kentucky, office at (270) 274-3645 or the Owensboro, Kentucky, office at (270) 926-6040.