Imagine having an open sore on your side – you would undoubtedly seek immediate attention. Strangely, the mouth often doesn't receive the same care and consideration as the rest of our body. However, having a hole in a tooth does not get the same attention, though science is finding how detrimental and unhealthy the mouth is to our overall health. 

It may be because observing our mouths is challenging or because cavities and gum disease have become so prevalent. Regardless, don't be misled into thinking that these oral health issues aren't silently draining our overall well-being.

Ancient and eastern medicine has long practiced the mouth as an indicator of overall health. The West has not held the same regard. Nevertheless, we understand that the health of our mouths significantly impacts the health of our entire bodies.

Why Should You Go to the Dentist

Mouth infections are shockingly widespread. According to the CDC, approximately 90% of adults have experienced a cavity, 25% have untreated cavities, and half of adults over 30 suffer from gum disease.

Recent studies have even discovered that the bacteria responsible for gum disease can be found in the brain tissue of individuals with Alzheimer's disease. This finding suggests a strong likelihood that gum disease contributes to the development of Alzheimer's.

You may have heard your dentist or dental hygienist mention that an unhealthy mouth is linked to various diseases. Research has revealed that poor oral health increases the risk of:

- Heart disease

- Cancer

- Diabetes

- Pneumonia

- Osteoporosis

- Alzheimer's

- And the list continues to grow...

How Does the Mouth Impact the Body?

Although not all the exact cause-and-effect mechanisms have been identified, connections between an unhealthy mouth and systemic diseases have been established.

For example, gum disease raises blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of diabetes. Conversely, diabetes compromises the body's ability to fight infections, heightening the chances of developing gum disease and other conditions.

Whether it's an infected tooth or gum disease, the body responds to oral infections similarly to any other type of infection. An infection triggers the immune response, including inflammation. Although it is not fully understood, it is clear chronic low-grade infections cause inflammation, a fundamental factor in many modern diseases.

Furthermore, bacterial overgrowth in any part of the body can spread to other areas through the bloodstream. The blood circulating through your heart also passes through infected areas. Therefore, an oral infection can have far-reaching consequences.

How to Have a Healthier Mouth

If you are asking yourself, why should you go to the dentist, it is because the mouth deserves the same level of attention as any other body part. Ignoring oral health issues takes a toll on your vitality and overall well-being. 

A plan for maintaining a healthy mouth includes:

- Adopting a nutritious diet and making healthy lifestyle choices to enhance healing and resilience

- Implementing a robust dental hygiene routine to maintain oral cleanliness and reduce pathogenic bacteria

- Regularly visit your dentist to address concerns promptly and quickly identify potential issues. 

Remember, a healthy mouth is vital for your overall health and well-being. Remember to consider its significance and take proactive steps to care for it accordingly. 

We provide comprehensive evaluations and dental care in Salem, MA. Give us a call to schedule a consultation.