Oral Bacteria Can Sabotage Your General Health

Your dental care routine is an important way to reduce the number of bacteria in your mouth, but because the microbes are a normal and important part of digestion, you can’t eliminate them entirely. One of their duties is to break down the foods and sugars left on your teeth when you eat or drink. If you smoke, drink too much alcohol, eat an unhealthy diet, or neglect your dental hygiene, your oral bacteria may become unbalanced. The resulting dental plaque accumulation leads to problems such as gingivitis, periodontitis, and tooth loss.

It’s not just your mouth that’s the victim of oral bacteria, however. Studies have shown links between high levels of oral bacteria and conditions such as stroke, heart disease, obesity, infertility, and low birth weight. A study of 37 hospitalized patients revealed that changes in oral bacteria occurred just prior to the onset of pneumonia. The findings led to health authorities warning that dental hygiene neglect can lead to the potentially fatal lung disease. Other research has found that oral bacteria in the bloodstream may be linked to joint inflammation and the failure of prosthetic joints. High levels of oral bacteria may also be associated with osteoporosis in the jaw, which can lead to tooth loosening and dental abscesses.

Reducing your risk of serious medical problems caused by oral bacteria is simple—don’t neglect your dental care. An affordable dentist can help you learn more. Dentists know that proper dental hygiene for kids and adults helps them live healthier lives, and they have many tools, treatments, and recommendations to offer. Visit your dentist in Sweetwater to learn more about the relationship between oral bacteria and your overall health.

To learn about our family dentistry practice in Sweetwater, call Sweetwater Smiles today at (321) 594-2628 or make an appointment.

Advanced Dental Care offers affordable family dentistry and gentle, compassionate dental care in Sweetwater. With 21 affiliated practices throughout Florida, our offices are conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At Sweetwater Smiles, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover an affordable dentist who truly cares at Sweetwater Smiles.