Over the past decade, more physicians have investigated the “mouth-body connection” between oral and general health. Oral health can affect your whole body in more ways than you think. The oral cavity is the main entrance for two vital bodily systems: the respiratory and gastrointestinal. Oral infections often spread to other parts of the body and cause or exacerbate systemic diseases. If you are looking for periodontics and implant dentistry in Miami FL, we can help you.
The relationship also goes the other way around. Health conditions in the body can influence periodontitis because they affect immune and inflammatory responses. Keep reading for a list of 5 diseases you may not know are related to oral health.
Oral Health Clinic in Miami and Key West FL
Regular visits to the dentist or periodontist are crucial to maintaining your oral and general health. Dr. Mark I. Gutt specializes in periodontics and implant dentistry Miami, FL, and Key West, FL. If you are seeking treatment for periodontics diseases in the area, contact Dr. Gutt here.
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Diabetes
There is a well-documented connection between diabetes and oral health in medical research. Inflammation originating in the mouth impairs the body’s ability to process insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar. Diabetes can also exacerbate periodontitis because high blood sugar supports gum infections. Maintaining oral health reduces your risk of developing diabetes. If you already have diabetes, it can mitigate symptoms. Also, regulating your blood sugar if you have diabetes protects against periodontitis.
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Heart Disease
Research shows that up to 91% of heart disease patients also have periodontitis. This may be because heart disease and periodontitis have common risk factors such as smoking, poor diet, and obesity. In addition, some physicians suspect that periodontitis may increase the risk of heart disease because inflammation in the mouth can inflame the blood vessels. This raises blood pressure and increases the risk of heart attacks.
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Cancer
Many types of cancer originate in the oral cavity, including cancer of the lips, tongue, gums, floor of the mouth, and pharynx. Oral cancers are the sixth leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Additionally, 75% of cases are linked with tobacco and alcohol consumption. Other risk factors include radiation exposure, poor dental hygiene, and HIV. As a patient, you can reduce these risks by consulting a dentist if you have unexplained pain or find lumps and ulcers in your mouth and lips.
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Osteoporosis
The connection between osteoporosis and periodontitis is still disputed in the medical community. However, some studies have discovered that women with osteoporosis are more likely to have periodontitis. This may be because osteoporosis and periodontitis both cause bone loss. Researchers theorize that inflammation from periodontitis may weaken bones throughout the body.
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Pregnancy Complications
Evidence shows that infections and inflammation throughout the body, including periodontitis, contribute to babies’ premature births and low birth weights. Premature births and low birth weights can create major health problems like heart and lung conditions. Because of the hormonal changes during pregnancy, there is also an increased risk of periodontitis. Expectant mothers should get a periodontal exam to see if they are at risk.
Conclusion
The mouth-body connection has widespread implications for overall health. You can manage health conditions by brushing and flossing twice a day, using an antibacterial mouthwash, and visiting the dentist at least every 6 months (or more often as directed). Dr. Mark I. Gutt practices advanced periodontics Miami, FL, and Key West, FL, and accepts new patients. Go to his website to find more information and book an appointment.