Diseases Linked to Dental Health Des Plaines, IL
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 Apple Family Dental in Des Plaines 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 (847) 553-4848 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Habitual vs. Genetic Reasons for Oral Conditions
A number of oral health conditions stem from habit and behavior. The leading causes of many oral concerns are smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor nutrition, and inadequate brushing, flossing, and rinsing. Genetics also plays a role in oral health conditions, ranging from hereditary traits to behaviors during pregnancy.
How to Prevent These Issues
Minor dental concerns, such as cavities and caries, often stem from genes or women who had untreated cavities or caries during pregnancy. However, severe oral conditions, such as gum disease or oral cancer, are often combinations of genes and behavior and worsen through improper hygienic habits. It is possible to diagnose the majority of oral conditions at a young age through preventative treatments that combat disease and decay at the root. The most crucial step in preventing oral and systemic health concerns is a good oral hygiene routine.
Healthy Living and Wellness Plans
A part of living a healthy, balanced life is diet, nutrition, exercise, and hygiene. A good oral hygiene routine entails proper brushing twice a day, flossing and rinsing daily, consistent six-month dental checkups and cleanings, replacing toothbrushes every three months, and avoiding sugary foods and beverages.
A wellness plan is a program designed to improve health and fitness, usually offered by employers and insurance companies. A wellness plan encompasses all health concerns (mental, physical, and emotional) for full-body wellness. They incorporate oral health, general health, and mental health concerns into a systemic chain that combats conditions simultaneously.
“A part of living a healthy, balanced life is diet, nutrition, exercise, and hygiene.”
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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Effects During Pregnancy
Premature Birth
As bacteria enter the body through the oral cavity, various tracts lead to the womb and affect the fetus. According to the Matern Child Health Journal, "Untreated dental disease can lead to infection and inflammation, which have been implicated as significant contributors to preterm birth." In essence, the fetus does attain an inflammatory response to maternal oral infection.
Low Birth Weight
Women who have periodontal disease have also been linked to higher rates of premature birth and low birth weight. Good oral hygiene and care before and during pregnancy have shown a significantly lower number of low birth weight babies. In an article on preventative medicine, researchers found that pregnant women who brushed their teeth thoroughly thirteen or more times a week had normal birth weight outcomes and preterm birth (37 completed weeks of gestation).
“Good oral hygiene and care before and during pregnancy have shown a significantly lower number of low birth weight babies.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. Are oral conditions primarily habitual or genetic?
Q. What is the link between heart disease and oral health?
Q. Why is the oral microbiome important to systemic health?
Q. What can complete health dentistry do to promote my health?
People Also Ask
Q. Are oral conditions genetic or a result of environmental factors?
Q. Am I at high risk for developing oral cancer?
Q. What lifestyle factors can trigger gum bleeding?
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 Apple Family 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.
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Dental Terminology
Learn More Today
If you are interested in better understanding complete health dentistry, call us at 847-553-4848 to set up an appointment.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2024
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