Regular oral checkups can not only keep track of the health of your teeth and gums, but can also give you an insight to your overall health. According to studies by the American Dental Association, it is proven that your oral health can be linked to your overall health. Your mouth can show signs of nutient deficencies, infections, or systemic diseases – those that affect the whole body – which can first become apparent in the mouth.
In your mouth you can find millions of bacteria. These bacteria protect your teeth and gums from infections, especially periodontal disease, or gum disease. Many systemic diseases or conditions weaken the immune system, thus making the mouth more suseptable to more severe cases of periodontitis (gum disease). These conditions can include common diseases such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS, or blood cell disorders. Studies have also linked periodontitis inflammation to the development of cardiovascular problems such as stroke, arterial blockages, or heart disease. Many other conditions have oral manifestations such as swollen gums, mouth ulcers, and dry mouth that can be diagnosed by Dr. Milestone.
With this new information it is important to keep your teeth and gums healthy and maintain a strict oral routine. Make sure you brush your teeth twice a day and use floss or water picks to clean those hard to reach spots between your teeth. Also eat a balanced diet and limit snacks that can damage your tooth enamel. Along with doing all of these things at home, come into Milestone Orthodontics for regular checkups or visit your family dentist in West Orange NJ. Professional cleaning is the only way you can truly clean tartar off your teeth.
Although there is strong evidence to connect oral health to overall health, just because two conditions occur at the same times does not mean they are connected. The only way you can truly decide if they are connected is if you visit your orthodontist or dentist along with your doctor. If you do notice any changes in your oral health, please do not hesitate to contact Milestone Orthodontics in Paramus or West Orange NJ.
