If 2020 taught us anything, it is that we have extraordinarily little control over many things. In contrast, our oral health is something we have almost complete control over. Therefore, if you are thinking about what you can do differently this year to improve your overall health, making oral health a priority is one thing that you will likely be able to do without too much difficulty.
Unlike going to the gym (which is almost impossible now anyway), walking 2 miles per day, doing 200 sit-ups, or sticking to a diet of carrot sticks and yogurt, improving your oral health is a resolution you will likely find easy to keep.
How Improving Your Oral Health Improves Your Overall Health
You are probably wondering if this seemingly simple resolution can do much good when it comes to improving your overall health, and the answer is yes. By improving your oral hygiene, and meticulously caring for your teeth and gums, you will be eliminating a potential source of inflammation and infection that can affect your general health and well-being. Mayo Clinic offers a great deal of information about this here.
Healthy Mouth – Healthy Heart
Many studies have suggested that heart health is linked directly to oral health due to bacteria traveling through the bloodstream. A study that recently appeared in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology indicated that participants who brushed their teeth three or more times per day lowered their risk of developing heart failure by 12% and lowered their risk of developing atrial fibrillation (Afib) by 10%, which is a significant improvement.
Because bacteria and other germs can travel from the mouth to your heart and blood vessels, gum disease (gingivitis) and periodontitis are not only linked to an increased risk for heart disease, but to a greater risk of stroke, diabetes, premature births, and low birth-weight babies.
More Information From Your Family Dentist in Naperville Coming Soon
Now that you know why it is a good idea to consistently focus on improving your oral health, we want to help you understand the best ways to do that. Please check back here shortly for Part II in the series or reach out to our knowledgeable and experienced dentist at Naperville Commons Dental for more information. Please call to book an appointment at our dental office today.
