Some have said that the mouth is the gateway to the body – this couldn’t be more true. All of the nutrients that our body needs to thrive pass through the mouth and affect the rest of the body. Poor oral health can also affect your overall wellness and relate to systemic health problems.

Gum disease and diabetes have a strong connection. People with diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease because the high blood sugar provides ideal conditions for bacterial infections to grow. Active gum disease also makes controlling blood sugar more problematic for diabetic patients.

Heart disease and poor oral health have been linked in many studies but researchers are still not sure of the mechanisms at work. It is thought that the inflammation in the mouth causes inflammation throughout the body, including the blood vessels, which can increase the risk of heart attack. The two conditions have common risk factors including unhealthy eating habits, smoking and being overweight. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help protect your smile and your heart.

Pregnant women with gum disease are at higher risk for delivering their babies early or delivering low-weight babies. Scientists believe that infection and inflammation from gum disease affect fetal development. Women who are pregnant are more likely to experience a form of gum disease caused by the changes in hormones making regular dental visits before and during pregnancy important.

Poor oral health has been linked with lung conditions like pneumonia and COPD. Doctors have also found the the pain from rheumatoid arthritis is lessened when gum disease has been treated.

The list goes on and on, with more research about the mouth-body connection being published every year. Protect your health and save healthcare dollars by brushing, flossing and visiting the dentist regularly. A small investment in your oral health can be life changing.

Contact Columbus cosmetic dentist Dr. Mark Levy today at 614-915-0134 to schedule your next visit.