A Family Dentist Explains Why Dental Health Is So Important

family dentist Buford, GA

Our family dentists in our Buford office say dental health is a lot more important than most people realize. Your oral health is closely related to your overall health as issues in the mouth increase your risk of certain health conditions. For example, people with gum disease are more likely to develop diabetes and heart disease.

A family dentist goes over the link between oral and overall health

Like many other areas of the body such as the stomach, a person’s mouth serves as a home for millions of bacteria. Most of these microorganisms are harmless, but some can lead to illness and diseases. Under most circumstances, the body’s natural defense systems and good oral hygiene are enough to keep the bacteria under control. When a person fails to take proper care of their mouth, bacteria in the mouth can reach dangerous levels. This can lead to issues like gum disease and tooth decay. There are also a variety of medications like diuretics, painkillers, and antihistamines that dry out the mouth. Saliva helps to remove bacteria and acids in the mouth, and this protection is lost when a person’s mouth is dry. Studies have already linked oral health to diseases like:

  • Endocarditis: This is an infection of the lining of the heart valves or chamber. It usually occurs when bacteria from other parts of the body, like the mouth, enter the bloodstream and reach the heart. This is one of the reasons why a dentist might opt to extract a tooth with an advanced infection
  • Cardiovascular disease: Some research indicates oral infections increase the risk of conditions like strokes, clogged arteries, and heart disease
  • Birth complications: Advanced gum disease increases the risk of a pregnancy resulting in low birth weight or a premature birth
  • Pneumonia: Some of the bacteria that live in the mouth can be pulled into the lungs as a person inhales. This can lead to respiratory disease like pneumonia

Conversely, a person’s overall health can also have an effect on their dental health. For instance, diabetes reduces the immune system’s resistance to infection. This increases the person’s risk of gum disease since their gums have less resistance to bacteria. Also, people with gum disease tend to have more difficulty controlling their blood sugar levels. Just as is the case with diabetes, HIV/AIDS hinders the immune system, making a person more susceptible to issues like gum disease. Osteoporosis is a condition that leads to the loss of bone tissue in the body and it can also damage bone structures in the mouth. That leads to teeth becoming loose or falling out.

Protecting your mouth

It does not take much to keep your mouth healthy. Here is what you should be doing:

  • Brush twice every day
  • Floss daily
  • Use a mouthwash after brushing
  • Eat calcium-rich foods
  • Reduce sugar consumption
  • Replace your toothbrush every three months
  • Quit smoking
  • Visit a dentist twice a year

Having a healthy mouth is a must

Contact our clinic to learn more about how your oral health affects your overall health and wellbeing. Our dentist can perform preventative treatments while you are here. Request an appointment here: https://buforddentist.com or call North Atlanta Center for Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry at (770) 932-1115 for an appointment in our Buford office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

When Can You Eat Chips After Wisdom Teeth Removal?

When Can You Eat Chips After Wisdom Teeth Removal?

TLDR; You should wait at least two weeks before eating chips after wisdom teeth removal for upper extractions and up to eight weeks for lower extractions, as they heal slower. Crunchy foods can dislodge the blood clot, leading to painful complications like dry socket. Always consult your Buford Dentist before reintroducing chips into your diet. […]

How Far Can Gums Recede Before Teeth Fall Out? A Complete Guide

How Far Can Gums Recede Before Teeth Fall Out? A Complete Guide

TLDR; Gums can recede to the point where teeth become loose and eventually fall out, typically when the recession reaches 5mm or more and significant bone loss occurs. Early intervention is crucial to prevent further deterioration. If you notice signs of gum recession, consult a dentist immediately to avoid severe consequences. What Is Gum Recession? […]

Can You Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed While Pregnant? Safety, Risks & Alternatives

TLDR; Yes, wisdom teeth can be removed during pregnancy, but it is generally safest to do so during the second trimester. If the wisdom teeth are not causing severe pain, infection, or complications, dentists may recommend postponing extraction until after delivery. Always consult your dentist and OB-GYN to determine the best course of action. Pregnancy […]

Can You Drink Soda After Wisdom Teeth Removal? Why Not?

Can You Drink Soda After Wisdom Teeth Removal? Why Not?

TLDR; No, you should not drink soda after wisdom teeth removal. The carbonation can disrupt healing, the acidity can irritate the extraction site, and the sugar increases the risk of infection. It’s best to wait at least one to two weeks before reintroducing soda and choose safer alternatives in the meantime. After having your wisdom […]

Dental Implants: What You Need to Know Before Getting One

Dental Implants: What You Need to Know Before Getting One

TLDR; Dental implants are a long-term solution for replacing missing teeth, offering durability, improved oral function, and a natural appearance. The Dental Implant Procedure involves multiple stages, including consultation, surgery, healing, and crown placement. While highly effective, implants require sufficient bone density, proper oral hygiene, and can be costly. What Are Dental Implants? A dental […]

How Long Do Veneers Last? Dentist Explains Do’s & Don’ts

How Long Do Veneers Last? Dentist Explains Do’s & Don’ts

TLDR; Veneers typically last between 10 to 15 years for porcelain and around 5 to 7 years for composite, depending on material quality and maintenance. Proper oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and avoiding habits like teeth grinding or chewing on hard objects can extend their lifespan. Following best practices ensures veneers stay durable and aesthetically […]

General Question

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. 

Far far away, behind the word mountains, far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia, there live the blind texts. Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove right at the coast
Far far away, behind the word mountains, far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia, there live the blind texts. Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove right at the coast
Far far away, behind the word mountains, far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia, there live the blind texts. Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove right at the coast