Studies have found that oral hygiene is intrinsically connected with your overall health and wellbeing so having regular check-ups is now even more important. 

Here are five common conditions that can be affected by poor oral health.

1. Diabetes

Due to their weakened immune systems and poor blood flow to the extremities, people with diabetes are at a greater risk of getting infections. A less effective immune system and poor blood flow means people with diabetes are more likely to experience dental problems like gum disease.

2. Lung disease

The increase in bacteria in the mouth caused by gum disease can lead to chest infections, as fine droplets of bacteria are transferred from the mouth to the lungs. A build up of this bacteria can lead to the development of diseases like pneumonia, which is particularly dangerous for older and weaker patients.

3. Heart disease

If you have gum disease, you’re twice as likely to suffer from heart disease. Experts believe that this could be to do with the bacteria from the mouth working its way into the bloodstream via the pockets where open capillaries exist. The increased bacteria in the blood stick to the plaque in the arteries which forms into a atherosclerotic plaque that eventually obstructs the arteries around the heart.

4. Stroke

Like heart disease, you’re also twice as likely to have a stroke if you suffer from gum disease. It’s believed that when the gums bleed and become inflamed the bacteria get into the bloodstream increasing the size of the atherosclerotic plaque in the arteries. Some of this plaque can break off and flow through the blood system until it gets stuck in a small vessel causing the stroke in the brain or an embolism in the lungs.

5. Premature babies

One of the more surprising links is how gum disease can lead to a higher chance of premature or low birth weight babies. The Oral Health Foundation reported that pregnant woman with gum disease are three times more likely to give birth prematurely, because gum disease is thought to elevate the chemicals which bring about labour.

It’s clear that good oral hygiene is important for maintaining overall health but if you’re already suffering from poor health, it’s even more important to look after your teeth and gums to prevent your conditions from getting worse. If you’re looking for a dental hygiene appointment in Essex, call our friendly team on 01268 742 333.