Deteriorating Dental Health is Not Your Fault
After the epic year we’ve all had, many of our patients had to press “pause” on regular dental visits. But now, as things normalize, it is time to pay attention to the health of your mouth as it does affect your overall well-being. An unhealthy mouth can lead to an unhealthy body; in addition, certain illnesses can also cause problems for your dental health.
- Gum Disease – Heart disease, diabetes, respiratory disease, osteoporosis, and rheumatoid arthritis have all been linked to gum disease.
- Bacteria in Mouth– There are typically hundreds of species of bacteria thriving in your mouth which cause plaque. When this happens, it provides a welcoming environment for even more bacteria to flourish, leading to the gum infection known as gingivitis. Gingivitis, when left untreated, can lead to periodontitis (a severe gum infection that can cause tooth loss and other serious health complications).
- Bacteria in Body – If you’ve got gum disease, even routine brushing and flossing can cause breaks in your gums that give those microbes access to the rest of your body. And if your immunity is weak, you can develop an infection in another part of your body due to the oral bacteria in your bloodstream.
- An Unhealthy Body Can Cause Poor Dental Health – Some systemic illnesses can cause trouble for your mouth. There’s significant evidence that diabetes, for instance, has a reciprocal relationship with gum disease. Keeping blood sugar under control improves oral health, and treating periodontal disease reduces the need for insulin.
One of the best ways to keep your teeth healthy is scheduling regular dental appointments. Whether you need a general dentist in Chicago or are seeking special cosmetic dentistry services, our dental office in downtown Chicago will be happy to assist you. UAD’s customer service is second to none! Please contact us to schedule a free consult by clicking here or giving us a call at (312) 704-5511. All of our patients have access to 24-hour emergency dental services in Chicago!
