We at Olympia Hills Family Dental have made it our life’s work to provide the best in dental care for our patients and their families. While having excellent oral health in and of itself is quite important, for some time now health care researchers have been finding links between overall health and how it is affected by a person’s state of dental health. The results make a strong case for keeping one’s oral health in top notch condition in order to facilitate overall health goals.
Here are some examples of recent research showing the relationship between overall health and dental health:
Researchers at Columbia University found that there was a link between gum disease (periodontitis) and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Specifically, the researchers found that people with periodontal disease were more likely to have increased levels of the inflammation that is a risk factor for CVD.
Another large international study which was published in the Journal of Hypertension found that people with high levels of periodontal bacteria were three times as likely to have high blood pressure as those with low levels of the same bacteria.
Medical doctors have long known that periodontitis was also a complication of diabetes. But a study from researchers at the University of Buffalo suggests that periodontal disease may actually work in tandem with diabetes and also obesity to produce poor health outcomes.
Daily brushing, flossing and regular visits to a dentist can help keep these bacteria under control for most people. In the absence of proper oral hygiene, bacteria can reach levels that lead to oral infections such as tooth decay and periodontitis.
Disease-free teeth and gums are critical components to overall health. Olympia Hills Family Dental is here to provide the best in family dentistry. Let us show you and the people you care for the most, the way to brighter smiles and healthier bodies. Contact us today at 210-658-3131!