How Oral Health Affects Overall Health

When you brush your teeth at night you’re doing more than just cleaning off your teeth. It may seem like such a daunting task at times, but is it really? The truth is that not taking care of your teeth properly is more daunting in the end, as it is believed to be a contributor to many serious side effects.

The recommended cleaning routine is flossing once and brushing at least twice daily, as well as getting a routine dental check up every six months. Doing less can lead to a buildup of plaque and bacteria. Some of the more common results from disregarding this suggestion, are tooth decay and tooth loss, gum disease, and periodontitis. Of these, periodontitis is the most threatening. It attacks and breaks down gums and the bone that supports your teeth.

If that isn’t serious enough, the results of neglecting your pearly whites can get worse. Periodontitis is a major risk factor for both heart and lung disease. Studies have shown that when the connective tissue behind the gums breaks down, it can allow bacteria into the blood stream and cause buildup and inflammation in or around the heart. Similarly, this can allow bacteria to travel to the lungs leading to pneumonia and bronchitis, and other organs causing an array of diseases as well.

Don’t let your smile be a sore spot. Come see your neighborhood dentists at Texas Premier Dental. Call (281)206-0100 and schedule your next appointment today or come see us at 13203 Fry Road #500, Cypress, Texas, 77433.