If you’re having chest pains, you call a medical doctor. If you have tooth pain you call the dentist. And if your teeth are misaligned or crooked, to straighten them you call an orthodontist. It’s as simple as that, isn’t it? Actually, your general health is predicated on a number of factors and when any one of them is out of alignment your overall wellness can suffer. Contrary to popular belief oral health is not separate from your overall health but rather the two are interconnected.
Your mouth is the primary entrance into your body and it’s also filled with approximately six million bacteria. When good oral hygiene is practiced these bacteria are harmless; kept under control by the body’s natural defenses. But when your oral health begins to suffer the same bacteria can enter your bloodstream and lead to some very concerning complications.
Health Connections
Research on potential health problems caused by gum disease points to several serious conditions, such as endocarditis, an infection of the inner lining, chambers or valves in your heart. Some early studies also indicate that heart disease, stroke and clogged arteries may be linked to inflammation and infections. Additionally, pneumonia and other respiratory conditions can develop when bacteria in your mouth are pulled into your lungs.
Gum disease can also complicate existing health conditions. People who have diabetes are more susceptible to periodontal disease, which causes problems managing blood sugar levels. This in turn worsens their diabetes.
Orthodontic Contributions
The lesson here is that improved hygiene of the teeth and gums is necessary for improved overall health. And don’t forget that mental health is also part of the equation. The brain-body connection is powerful and when you feel good about yourself, including increased confidence, your overall health benefits as well.
Whether you are seeking advice from an orthodontist for a bite correction or proper teeth alignment, ask what you can do to feel good about your smile. Having a straight, bright smile goes a long way toward positive self-esteem and overall health.