How Oral Health Affects Overall Health

You know how important your oral health is. If you don’t, you should know that it’s very important! Why? Because your oral hygiene directly affects your eating habits, drinking habits, and even your sleeping habits. 

For example, if you don’t maintain a pristine mouth, you can start experiencing discomfort when eating or drinking cold foods and beverages. Sticky foods, hot foods, and chewy foods could pose a problem as well. And, if you let those feelings remain without visiting the dentist, you can develop severe cavities that need treatment. 

Gum Disease and Other Conditions

Gum disease, or periodontitis, is dangerous indeed. Yes, it causes your gums to experience pain and it could lead to tooth sensitivity or loss. But, it can also cause systemic health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.

Since your gums have direct lines to your heart through your veins, they can carry bacteria and plaque to your heart. This buildup of plaque and the spread of bacteria may cause serious heart conditions such as heart disease and stroke. Furthermore, blocking blood flow leads to greater problems as you age, including dementia and cancer. 

Taking Care of Business (Regarding Tooth Grinding)

Another way our patients neglect their oral care is by not reporting pain when they experience it. If you experience jaw pain, neck pain, or regular headaches, it could be related to tooth grinding or jaw misalignment. If you grind your teeth, you can wear down the protective layer, therefore, making your teeth uneven. 

Whether your tooth grinding is a natural condition in your sleep or a response to high-stress situations, we can help you improve your teeth. First, our dentists rejuvenate your teeth to their former glory with restorative dentistry. Then, we’ll prescribe you with a mouthguard or work on stress management to ensure that your teeth stay strong. 

Keep Your Smile Happy

In order to maintain a great smile, make sure to keep up a good oral health routine. First, brush at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Also, make sure you floss at least once a day to get the plaque out of those crevices. Additionally, be sure to schedule regular dental cleanings once every six months. With regular dental cleanings, we’ll be able to reach those tiny spaces that are just out of reach!

Your Dentist in San Diego

If you’re concerned about your teeth or if you have any questions about how to maintain your oral health, schedule an appointment with us. Call us at (858) 271-1010 today!