What is the connection between good oral health and well-being?
If uncontrolled, bacteria in the mouth can multiply and enter the bloodstream, affecting other parts of the body. Gum disease, in particular, has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, respiratory ailments, and even Alzheimer's disease. Tooth decay is one of the most prevalent diseases in America.
Good oral health means that you practice good oral hygiene. Following good oral hygiene habits maintains the health of your gums and teeth. You should brush twice a day, floss daily between the teeth to remove dental plaque, and visit your dentist at least once a year. Children should have their first dental visit by 1-year-old. Good oral health also means abstaining from tobacco products.
Good oral health reduces the risk of other health conditions
Failing to brush and floss your teeth regularly increases your risk of gingivitis and periodontitis (gum disease). This leads to bleeding, swelling, bad breath, loss of teeth, and other problems.
Regular brushing and flossing decreases the risk of tooth decay. Individuals who consume sugary foods and neglect to brush and floss their teeth are more prone to developing cavities which could lead to tooth loss.
Studies report that oral health impacts cardiovascular health. The research shows that those with significant dental issues suffer more heart attacks than those without.
Poor oral health has a link to diabetes. The reason they are linked is gum disease. When you have gum disease, it makes the sugar in your blood go up and elevated sugar is a sign of diabetes.
If you suspect that you are at risk for diabetes or already have been diagnosed with it, good oral hygiene is very important for you.
Some research has found that when your teeth and gums are not healthy, it can affect your lungs. As the gums become red and swollen, and bad bacteria increases, it can travel to the lungs. These germs can remain in your lungs and cause infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis.
Not taking care of your teeth may also be connected to Alzheimer’s disease. Recent studies suggest that the bacteria associated with periodontal disease is also associated with the development of Alzheimer's disease and dementia.
Resources
Community First Dental Center - New Haven
Offering the following services:
- Teeth Cleanings
- Fluoride Treatments
- Sealants
- Extractions
- X-Rays
- Crowns
- Root Canals
- Partials and dentures
- Additional services available, call for details
Our highly qualified dental providers offer a wide variety of services that are available to the whole family! We welcome most commercial insurance plans, Medicaid and Medicaid Health Plans, Medicare and Medicare Health Plans, and have a sliding fee program available for those who qualify!
Dental Hygiene Clinic at Macomb Community College
Offering the following services:
- Dental Cleanings
- Fluoride Treatments
- Athletic Guards
- X-rays
- Teeth Whitening
- Sealants
- Gum Disease Treatments
Trinity Community Care - Shelby Township
Dental clinic is open the second and fourth Friday and Sunday of every month. The hours are 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.
Provides free dental services to those in need except those under 19 years old.
Services include:
- Exams
- Cleanings
- X-Rays
- Fillings
- Extractions
- Scaling (deep cleaning)
- Fluoride Treatments
- Dentures
- Partials
Center Line - 586-467-0980
Mount Clemens - 586-783-2222
The dental clinic offers a full range of dental services at low cost, including:
- Exams
- Cleanings
- X-Rays
- Fillings
- Emergency Exams
- Crowns
- Bridges
- Fluoride Treatments
- Sealants
- Dentures
- Simple and Surgical Extractions
University of Michigan Dental School - Delta Dental Special Care Clinic
The U-M Special Care Clinic in Ann Arbor is now open and accepting new patients. The clinic provides care for patients ages 16 and up and is designed to accommodate patient care where standard dental operations can be challenging.
This clinic has been designed to provide care for patients with the following types of conditions:
- Cerebral palsy, development/intellectual disabilities
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (mild to moderate)
- Acquired cognitive disabilities: dementia, Traumatic Brain Injury, progressive neuro logic disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease
- Physical disabilities that limit mobility, vision or hearing
- Chronic medical problems such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, renal failure, COPD
- Immunologically-mediated diseases such as Sjogren’s syndrome
- Chronic pain syndrome