How a Dental Restoration Can Improve Your Overall Health

You probably already know the basics of maintaining good health, but did you know that dental restorations can significantly improve your overall wellness? Research has continuously demonstrated a strong correlation between oral and overall well-being. Poor oral health reduces a person's quality of life. It can induce a systematic inflammatory response that affects a person's ability to succeed in physical fitness. Conversely, good oral hygiene may prevent disease and infection.

Oral health impacts overall health

Your mouth is the body's entry point, and it is full of bacteria that can often be damaging to the body. Without adequate oral hygiene, bacteria can increase to harmful levels that lead to infections and contribute to various diseases and conditions.

Cardiovascular disease

Researchers are continuing to examine the connection between oral health and cardiovascular disease. Previous studies involving millions of cardiovascular patients suggest that stroke, clogged arteries, and heart disease are linked to infections and inflammation caused by oral bacteria. In fact, a study from the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry found that individuals with gum disease are twice as likely to die from a heart attack than those with healthy gums and three times as likely to experience a stroke.

Complications with pregnancy

Pregnant women are at increased risk of dangerous dental conditions, including periodontal disease resulting from inflammation and infections of the gums and surrounding bone. Periodontitis can cause complications for the mother, as a lack of bone support in the teeth can cause them to loosen and fall out or require extraction. The condition also creates increased birth risks, including preterm births or low birth weights.

Endocarditis

Poor oral health can damage the heart. When bacteria or other germs spread through the bloodstream, they can attach to some regions of the heart and cause life-threatening endocarditis, which is inflammation of the inner lining of the heart's valves (endocardium) or chambers. 

Pneumonia

Germs in the mouth can multiply when proper oral care is not observed. These germs can trickle into the lungs during sleep, leading to pneumonia. Aspiration pneumonia is also a problem, particularly for elderly individuals. When poor oral hygiene and periodontal disease are compounded with swallowing issues, pneumonia is a frequent result.

Respiratory illness

The mouth connects to other body systems, including the respiratory system. Bacteria from infected teeth can travel through the bloodstream or enter the lungs. Infections of the teeth may cause acute bronchitis, COPD, and other respiratory conditions.

Kidney disease

People with gum disease or poor oral hygiene also tend to have weakened immune systems. They have a higher likelihood of developing infections and developing chronic kidney disease. Chronic kidney disease affects your kidneys, bones, blood pressure, and heart. Chronic kidney disease also increases your chances of developing cardiovascular disease.

Diabetes

Sometimes diabetes and poor oral hygiene go hand in hand. Those who have diabetes may have a higher chance of developing periodontal disease and other infections, but those with periodontal disease may also have a higher chance of developing diabetes. Gum disease can cause your blood sugar to fluctuate dangerously. It often leads to higher than normal blood sugar, which can contribute to the development of diabetes.

Dental restorations can protect overall health

While basic practices such as brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits are important for preventing oral health from impacting overall health, dental restorations are also beneficial for protecting against further tooth decay and gum disease.

Fillings

Fillings can save a natural tooth and improve overall oral health. The filling can strengthen the tooth and stop the decay from spreading and creating further damage. The process of placing the filling also involves removing the existing decay and destroyed parts of the tooth, which improves the overall health of the mouth.

Crowns

Dental crowns cover the tooth completely, strengthening weakened teeth and protecting against damage from further decay. The crown makes the process of flossing easier, allowing for the elimination of plaque from between teeth and under the gumline, which can lower the risk of developing gum disease.

Conclusion

The importance of maintaining oral health is underscored by its relation to overall wellness. While regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits are critical, the value of dental restorations for improving your overall health should not be underestimated. Broken, decaying teeth can compromise your ability to eat, speak and live a confident life. You have a higher likelihood of developing infection and oral pain. Restoring your smile benefits your self-confidence and overall physical health.

Request an appointment here: http://www.hendersonfamilydentistry.com or call Henderson Family Dentistry at (903) 657-3139 for an appointment in our Henderson office.

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