How Dental Health Impacts Your Overall Physical Health
Did you know your next visit to the dentist could be the key to unlocking better overall health? Explore how your teeth and gums can impact your entire body and why choosing the best dentist in Berkeley is one of your most important health decisions.
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They say the eyes are a window to the soul, but did you know that your oral health is a window to your physical health? The health of your teeth and gums can impact other body systems and even put you at a higher risk for health conditions. In fact, poor oral hygiene doesn't just lead to cavities and bad breath; it opens the door to other serious health issues like cardiovascular disease and periodontal disease.
This is one of many reasons why it’s essential to choose a dentist who understands the connection between oral health and overall wellness. If you want to protect your smile and your physical health, you'll want to find a family dentist in Berkeley who prioritizes functional, full-body health.
Continue reading to discover more about the link between oral health and physical health, and how to find the best family dentist in Berkeley for integrative, comprehensive dentistry.
The Link Between Oral Hygiene and Physical Health
Good oral hygiene doesn’t just help you prevent cavities and gum disease; it is also an essential part of keeping yourself physically healthy. When you neglect your oral health, harmful bacteria can build up and trigger an inflammatory response, leading to an infection that could enter your bloodstream and cause systemic infection throughout your body. Research has also linked poor oral hygiene with an increased risk of serious health conditions, such as gum disease and heart disease. Even your lungs can be affected by poor oral health — bacteria from your mouth can be inhaled, leading to pneumonia or other respiratory infections.
Although anyone can suffer from the health consequences of poor oral health, people who also have diabetes, cancer, or HIV are more susceptible to gum or tooth infections and can struggle with infections that don’t heal.
Which Health Problems Can Be Caused by Having Bad Teeth?
When you neglect your oral hygiene, bacteria in your mouth can spread and contribute to various medical conditions. Some of the health issues that can be caused or worsened by bad teeth include the following:
Heart disease and high blood pressure: Bacteria from tooth decay or gum infections can enter your bloodstream and affect your heart.
Diabetes: Gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugar levels.
Respiratory infections: Bacteria from your mouth can be inhaled into your lungs, causing pneumonia or other respiratory conditions.
Pregnancy complications: Poor oral health is also linked to premature birth and low birth weight.
Dementia: Some research suggests a link between gum disease and an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease.
Oral cancer: Chronic inflammation in the mouth may increase cancer risk.
Simple Steps to Improve Your Dental Health
Taking care of your dental health is important for your overall well-being. Here are simple and effective steps to boost your oral hygiene:
Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and use an antimicrobial mouthwash to remove plaque and bacteria.
Eat a balanced diet with limited sugary and acidic foods, stay hydrated, and avoid tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption.
Consider professional fluoride treatments during your dental visits to strengthen your tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay.
Visit your dentist twice a year for professional teeth cleanings and early detection of potential dental issues.
Choose a dentist who prioritizes whole-body wellness and can provide you with comprehensive care that not only enhances your oral health but also contributes to your overall physical well-being.
When it comes to how often to visit a dentist, it's generally suggested to go twice a year for check-ups and cleanings. That said, some people may need more frequent visits based on their dental health needs.
Where to Find the Best Lifestyle Dentist in Berkeley
It is important to choose a dentist who understands the close relationship between dental health and physical health. Dr. Nisha Kalra is an expert in lifestyle dentistry on a mission to bridge the gap between medicine and dentistry by offering a comprehensive approach to health that starts with your smile.
With her background in Lifestyle Medicine and dedication to treating the root causes of oral disease, Dr. Kalra can help you improve your dental and physical well-being. By examining factors like your diet, sleep patterns, stress, and social health, she works with you to develop personalized solutions that address your unique needs.
Whether you're dealing with ongoing dental issues or simply want to optimize your oral and overall health, Dr. Kalra's functional approach to dentistry can guide you toward thriving as a whole, healthy person.
Ready to experience the benefits of lifestyle dentistry with the top-rated family dentist in Berkeley?
