Did you know that skipping your dental check-up can have an impact on your overall health?
While most people are aware of the impact poor oral hygiene can have on their teeth, only a small number of dental patients are informed on how poorly managed dental health can impact on other parts of their body.
Poorly maintained dental health can have repercussions on your digestive system, your mental
health, and even your cardiovascular system. But research has found that the links don’t end there!
In this article, 5 of the most serious health repercussions of poor oral health will be discussed, informing you of the risks of not attending check-ups with your dentist in Southgate.
Cardiovascular disease
As previously mentioned, cardiovascular disease is one of the main issues associated with poor oral health.
If you miss a check-up with your dentist near Southgate, then you are at a higher risk of inflamed gums. An inflamed gum is more porous, allowing bacteria to seep into the bloodstream. This causes plaque to build up in the arteries, which hardens them and puts pressure on your heart.
This can cause conditions like angina, and blockages and will inevitably increase your risk of a heart attack.
Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
When your gums become inflamed due to decay or periodontal disease, substances are released into your blood as a result of the swellings; these are called gingipains and are linked to gingivitis. However, they have also been linked to swellings caused by decay, abscesses or excess plaque in the mouth.
Unfortunately, these substances are able to cross the blood-brain barrier and research conducted by King’s College has found a link between excess amounts of gingipains and plaque formation in the brain.
So, don’t skip that check-up with your dentist from Southgate if your gums are swelling!
Diabetes
Another issue caused by poor dental health is type 2 diabetes.
If you have type 2 diabetes already, then it is even more vital that you keep your teeth and gums in top shape; poor oral hygiene and maintenance can lead to blood sugar levels spiking erratically, making diabetes more likely or worsening existing symptoms.
So, if you are diabetic or have swellings in your gums, ensure that you maintain regular contact with your dental practitioner.
Reproductive problems
A very concerning complication linked to bad oral hygiene is its connection to reproductive issues.
Indeed, women who have regular issues with their teeth and gums find it harder to become pregnant and, when they do conceive, they are more likely to have a premature birth. Also, babies of women who have dental issues often have a lower birth rate.
Kidney disease
If you have gum disease or decay, it is likely that your immune system is weaker.
This, in turn, can create issues with your kidney function, as well as your liver. Issues with your kidneys can lead you to suffer from more serious infections, issues with waste filtration and will make it tougher for you to safely manage colds and flu.
However a quick visit to your dentist, when possible, could reduce the likelihood of these complications occurring.
