For many reasons we might see a disconnect between our oral health and our overall health, but the two are actually closely linked. While we spend time at different physicians’ offices (dentists vs general practitioners) to discuss that health, your oral health impacts and is impacted by your physical health. How we take care of our teeth and gums can greatly impact our bodies, and in many bases, symptoms in the mouth can often be signs of health issues throughout the body. Our mouths are one of the main ways things get into our bodies, from food to bacteria. In this article, we will cover how proper oral care can impact your health and how oral symptoms can give us insight into our physical health. If you need a dentist in the Lewiston area, please give us a call.
How Does My Oral Health Impact My Physical Health?
There are many ways to improve your overall health. Diet, exercise, and a of course decreasing the risks of illness. Washing your hands for example, prevents bacteria from entering your body when you touch your mouth, nose, eyes, or ears. The mouth is a particularly important area of the body. It is one of the largest entrances for our bodies and it can be home to millions of bacteria. While many types of bacteria are harmless, and some are even beneficial, it is important to mitigate how bacteria enters and interacts with our bodies. Brushing, flossing, and dental hygiene can prevent the spreading of viruses and bacterial infections. In fact, your dentist will likely feel your lymph nodes around your neck and throat during an exam, as swelling lymph nodes are often a sign of infection.
Gum Disease & The Rest Of Your Health
Gum disease is a very troubling issue for many reasons. But one of the main reasons is that gum disease can often precede or link to other physical health problems. Gum disease is caused by bacteria growth and infection of the gums. Again, your mouth is a major gateway to the rest of your body. Signs of infection in your gums can mean that bacteria, viruses, and other causes for concern are entering your body. Research has linked gum disease to a variety of health concerns, especially when looking at the lungs and cardiovascular system. Bacteria in your mouth can enter your lungs and that can cause problems with your heart. Proper oral care can decrease bacteria, prevent infections, and protect the rest of your body.
The Importance Of Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer, like all cancers, can spread throughout the body. Oral cancer is a fairly common cancer especially in people with a familiar history of cancer or people who smoke or ingest other carcinogens. Catching cancer early is the best scenario. This is why doctors recommend cancer screenings and why dentists often recommend oral cancer screenings. Swollen lymph nodes are often a sign of infection or even cancer. Scheduling an oral cancer screening as part of your routine dental visits adds an extra layer of protection.
Family Dental Services in Lewiston Maine
Dental care at a dental office goes a long way towards your overall health, from screenings, to x-rays to preventative care that can keep your mouth healthy and prevent gum disease and other infections. If you need a dentist in the Lewiston Maine area, please give us a call.
Learn More About Dentistry:
Why Do Gums Bleed When You Floss?
Bleeding gums are a common sign that you might have gum disease or other oral issues. But that isn’t always the case. In fact, there
Does Going To The Dentist Fix Bad Breath?
Bad breath is a common concern for many people. It can be off putting to coworkers, friends, and other people in the vicinity if you
What Causes Cavities?
If there is one thing you do not want to hear at the dentist’s office, it is that you have a cavity that will need
What Happens At A Dental Cleaning
Ask any dentist in the country, you should be seeing a dentist for a regular checkup at least twice per year. In fact, almost every
How Do I Handle A Cracked Tooth
A cracked or chipped tooth is a common dental issue. It can be caused from anything from a sports injury to biting down on a
Do I Need A Tooth Extraction?
A tooth extraction is often the last resort for dentists. When at all possible, dentists look for ways to save a tooth either with dental
