The connection between oral health and overall well-being is often overlooked. In India, this oversight is starkly evident. The grim reality in India is that 95% of the population suffers from gum disease, only 50% use a toothbrush, and just 4.5% of the population visit the dentist.
These statistics are alarming and highlight a critical health issue. Poor dental hygiene doesn’t just affect your smile; it has significant implications for your general health. Understanding how bad teeth affect your health is crucial. A prime example of excellence in addressing these issues is the best dental hospital in Vizag, which has been at the forefront of providing quality dental care.
Prostate Problems
Dental health and prostate health might seem unrelated, but there’s a surprising link between them. Poor oral health, particularly gum disease, can exacerbate prostate issues. Inflammation in the gums can lead to elevated PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) levels, an indicator often used to screen for prostate problems, including cancer.
Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene can play a role in managing and potentially reducing prostate health risks.
Gum Disease
Gum disease happens when plaque accumulates on teeth and causes inflammation and bleeding in the gums. How do bad teeth affect your health? If not treated, gum disease can destroy the tissues and bone supporting the teeth and may eventually result in tooth loss.
Studies show gum disease is linked to a higher risk of heart disease, stroke, and poor diabetes control. Pregnant women with gum disease are also more likely to deliver prematurely or have low birth weight babies. Viral di
Cancer
Oral health problems, especially gum disease and losing teeth, have been connected to an increased risk for certain cancers like pancreatic, lung, and colorectal cancers. One idea is that inflammation from gum disease may encourage cancer growth.
Another is that bacteria from diseased gums can get into the bloodstream and spread to other body parts, potentially contributing to cancer development.
Cardiovascular Disease
Inflammation from gum disease may also play a role in cardiovascular disease. Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and attach to fatty deposits in blood vessels, assisting clot formation.
This increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. People with gum disease have up to two-thirds higher risk of cardiovascular problems compared to those with healthy gums.
Kidney Disease
Kidney disease might seem unrelated to oral health, but there is a notable connection. Poor dental health, particularly chronic infections and inflammation, can affect the kidneys.
People with gum disease often have weaker immune systems, making it harder for their bodies to fight off infections. This increased vulnerability can lead to various complications, including kidney disease.
Heart Disease and Stroke
In addition to increasing clot formation, oral bacteria entering the blood can cause inflammation throughout the body. How bad teeth affect your health: This systemic inflammation appears to damage blood vessels and thickened artery walls, hiking blood pressure.
Studies reveal those with gum disease have nearly double the risk of experiencing a heart attack or stroke. Treating gum disease may help lower cardiovascular risks.
Respiratory Illnesses
The bacteria involved in gum disease can also cause lung and respiratory tract infections. Studies show a link between gum disease and respiratory conditions like pneumonia, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
It’s thought that bacteria enter the lungs through microaspiration of oral fluids. Treating gum disease may help reduce flare-ups and complications of chronic lung conditions.
High Blood Sugar (Diabetes)
Dental issues, particularly gum disease, can have a significant impact on people with diabetes, exemplifying how bad teeth affect your health. For those managing diabetes, oral infections can make blood sugar control more challenging.
The body’s response to oral bacteria can increase blood sugar levels, complicating diabetes management. Conversely, high blood sugar can create an environment in the mouth that is conducive to gum infections. This two-way relationship means that maintaining good dental health is crucial for people with diabetes.
Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene can help manage this risk and keep blood sugar levels more stable. It’s a vital part of diabetes care that shouldn’t be overlooked.
The connections between the mouth and the rest of the body highlight the importance of good oral hygiene and regular dental visits. Protecting your oral health with brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings can go a long way in maintaining your overall health. Addressing issues like gum disease promptly can reduce your risks of developing other health problems later on.
We at Queen’s NRI Hospital invite you to visit us for a consultation. Whether you need a dental implant, a root canal treatment, or are seeking cosmetic restoration, our team of experts is here to assist you.
At our clinic, we understand the intricate relationship between oral health and overall wellness. As the best dentist in Vizianagaram, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive dental care.
Book an appointment with us today and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you.