How Periodontal Health and Cardiovascular Disease Can Be Connected
Every complete health dentist knows there are a lot of bacteria in your mouth, just like in the rest of your body. Most of the time, the bacteria are harmless. However, your mouth is an entry point to your body. Some of the bacteria in your mouth can cause disease in other vital organs. Keep reading to find out more.
About the mouth and the rest of the body
In normal conditions, the body has natural defenses that keep bacteria controlled. Good oral care, such as flossing and brushing, can control the bacteria in the mouth. However, without the right oral care, there might be more bacteria in the mouth. That can eventually cause oral infections. These include gum disease and tooth decay. Some medications might reduce saliva flow, including:
- Antihistamines
- Pain relievers
- Decongestants
- Antidepressants
- Diuretics
The saliva in the mouth is important for washing away bits of food. It can also neutralize the acids that the bacteria in the mouth produce. That can protect the patient from the microbes that can cause disease. Inflammation and oral bacteria are both associated with periodontitis, which is a serious form of gum disease. Some diseases, such as AIDS or diabetes, can weaken the body’s immune system. That can make it harder for the body to fight off infection, making these issues worse.
Cardiovascular health
The patient’s oral health can contribute to a number of conditions and diseases. These include heart-related conditions. For example, endocarditis is an infection in the lining of the heart’s valves and chambers. This area is known as the endocardium. This usually happens when bacteria, like that in the mouth, enters the bloodstream.
It can then attach to some parts of the patient’s heart. Cardiovascular disease can also be linked to periodontal disease. The infection and inflammation in the mouth can allow the bacteria to spread. Unfortunately, it is not fully understood, and more research is needed.
Protecting the oral health
It is a good idea to have good oral hygiene for good oral health. Patients should brush the teeth twice a day using a soft brush. Fluoride toothpaste should be used as well. It should take two full minutes to brush each of the teeth in the mouth thoroughly.
Flossing should be done at least once a day. It is a good idea to use a dentist-recommended mouthwash to remove leftover bits of food after flossing. A complete health dentist can recommend the right mouthwash to use. The toothbrush should be replaced every three months to prevent bacteria buildup. It is also a good idea to avoid both tobacco and added sugars in the diet.
Visit a complete health dentist today
Having good oral health is not just about keeping your teeth healthy. It is also about keeping the rest of your body healthy. Visiting a complete health dentist can help you benefit from better health in your mouth. Having regular dental appointments can help you reduce the number of harmful bacteria.
Request an appointment here: https://dentalcareofmadison.com or call Dental Care of Madison at (601) 898-9390 for an appointment in our Madison office.
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