Diseases Linked to Dental Health Downey, CA
Contrary to popular belief, oral and systemic health are inextricably linked. This oral-systemic link is at the heart of everything a complete health dentist does. Skilled general dentists make sure to account for any diseases linked to dental health.
Complete health dentistry is available at Amir Sanjabi Dental in Downey and the surrounding area. Our team can provide you with a personalized treatment plan unique to your needs, regardless of what other conditions you may have. Call us today at (562) 399-9243 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Causal Factors of Various Mouth Conditions
Unhealthy habits are at the heart of several oral health conditions. Excessive alcohol consumption, inadequate dental hygiene, poor nutrition, and smoking are just a few of the leading culprits of mouth conditions. Genetics can also contribute — these may be hereditary or attributed to prenatal behaviors.
In most cases, the best line of defense against such factors is a healthy lifestyle. Patients who drink or smoke should cut back as much as possible. However, other causal factors, such as genetics, may be harder to control. As such, it is critical that patients make regular dental visits at least once or twice a year.
A proper oral hygiene routine and overall healthful lifestyle can also help prevent all patients from worsening their conditions. According to Healthline, everyone should brush their teeth at least twice a day. Use a fluoridated toothpaste and floss nightly. Make sure to drink enough water and limit sugary and acidic foods.
“A proper oral hygiene routine and overall healthful lifestyle can also help prevent all patients from worsening their conditions.”
Heart Health & Oral Health
As stated by Mayo Clinic, periodontal disease increases a patient‘s risk of developing a heart condition. More specifically, clogged arteries, heart disease, and stroke are likely to be associated with any inflammation and infections caused by oral bacteria. This is especially true of patients with artificial heart valves.
Inflammation associated with oral bacteria may also cause endocarditis, an infection of the endocardium, the inner lining of the heart chambers or valves. Usually, this occurs due to bacteria or other germs spreading from other parts of the body. As the mouth acts as a natural entry point for bacteria, the oral-systemic link here should come as no surprise.
“As stated by Mayo Clinic, periodontal disease increases a patient‘s risk of developing a heart condition.”
Gut Health, Immunodeficiencies, & Oral Health
Though research on oral microbiomes is still expanding, existing literature makes it clear that it can cause both oral and systemic conditions. When the oral microbiome‘s equilibrium is disturbed, disease-causing pathogens may manifest. These pathogens may make their way throughout the rest of the body in return.
This poses an especially big risk for those with immunodeficiencies or conditions that weaken the body‘s immune system. There are over 300 types of immunodeficiencies, many of which are associated with malnutrition and poor oral hygiene. According to one study, bacterial plaque-related periodontal diseases also seem to be especially sensitive to the innate system‘s primary deficiencies.
“There are over 300 types of immunodeficiencies, many of which are associated with malnutrition and poor oral hygiene.”
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Prenatal Oral Health
Oral healthcare is especially important during the prenatal period, as bacteria can now affect both the mother and the unborn fetus. In one study, women who did not receive dental care proved to be 15% more likely to experience preterm delivery, likely due to infection and inflammation associated with untreated dental disease.
Periodontal disease during pregnancy should be treated with the same severity as any other type of infection. At least one study suggests similarities between oral microbiota and opportunistic pathogens in the lower genital tract that may affect the labor process. Additionally, women with periodontal disease were up to seven times more likely to have a baby born too early and too small.
“Periodontal disease during pregnancy should be treated with the same severity as any other type of infection.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What causes oral health conditions?
Q. What is the link between heart disease and oral health?
Q. Why is the oral microbiome important to systemic health?
Q. What is the link between oral health and premature births?
Q. What can complete health dentistry do to promote my health?
People Also Ask
Q. Am I at high risk for developing oral cancer?
Q. What are the signs of gum disease?
How General Dentistry Can Help
By understanding the oral-systemic link, patients can better understand how to take care of their health. Choosing a skilled general dentist can also help them recognize signs of and prevent chronic diseases before they have the chance to occur. At Amir Sanjabi Dental, we understand that early intervention is key.
We also know that no two patients are the same and that everyone requires a different treatment plan. We assess each of our patient's individual risk factors to create a unique recovery plan custom-made to meet their needs. Through a comprehensive approach, we can reduce our patients' risk for heart disease, promote overall prenatal health, and prevent aggravating any other preexisting conditions.
“By understanding the oral-systemic link, patients can better understand how to take care of their health.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Diseases Linked to Dental Health
Q. Why is patient education important?
A. We believe that doctor-patient relationships should be collaborative, meaning the patient takes an active part in their own care. Many patients do not have a basic understanding of their conditions and how they affect them, leaving them to feel alone and helpless. Patient education can empower them to make informed decisions about their choices.
Q. Is there a link between chronic inflammation and periodontal disease?
A. Yes. Chronic gum inflammation is one of the top causes of periodontal diseases. When periodontal disease occurs, it creates pockets between the gums and teeth and fills them with bacteria, plaque, and tartar. If left untreated, these pockets become deeper over time, leading the inflammation to spread to other parts of the body.
Q. How does smoking factor into the oral-systemic connection?
A. Tobacco products affect the oral cavity just as they affect all other systems of the body. It allows numerous chemicals to enter the body and also allows bacteria to flow through several other bodily systems. Additionally, it limits saliva flow, which causes bacteria to stick to the teeth and gums. This may lead to plaque and infections.
Q. How does a general dentist check for signs of systemic disease?
A. Many systemic diseases can cause tooth decay and tooth loss. Many are also linked to periodontal disease, which is associated with harmful bacteria linked to various conditions. We can also conduct oral cancer screenings to catch the disease in its early stages.
Q. What is the healthy mouth baseline and what is its role in complete health dentistry?
A. The healthy mouth baseline is what the mouth should look like when it is in ideal health. We will go over this baseline with you during your initial consultation and compare and contrast it to your own mouth. Then, our team will devise a treatment plan custom-made to your unique needs.
Dental Terminology
Learn More Today
If you are interested in better understanding complete health dentistry, call us at 562-399-9243 to set up an appointment.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2024
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