Brushing at least twice daily, for at least two minutes at a time, is important to your overall health. In fact, as the following examples prove, the links between oral hygiene and the health of various parts of the body are often surprising.
Prevent Heart Disease
The condition of your mouth can affect the condition of your heart. Gum disease often leads to increased chances of deadly heart attacks. This is mainly due to the fact that the bacteria that cause gum inflammation can trigger inflammation throughout the body, which often contributes to heart disease, as well as a variety of other problems.
Brushing = Brain Power
When you do a good job brushing your teeth, you can boost your brain activity. According to a New York University College of Dentistry study, senior citizens suffering from gingivitis scored lower on cognitive tests than seniors with healthy gums. Plus, a five-year study from the Institute of Psychiatry at King’s College in London indicated that adults of varying ages — from their early twenties to their late fifties — performed better on the same kinds of exams if their gums were in good shape.
Respiratory Health
Gum disease has been scientifically connected to respiratory disorders like pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A study that the American Academy of Periodontology published in January 2011 explained that the bacteria that cause gum disease can travel down to a person’s lower respiratory tract, infecting these sensitive areas and causing problems.
Avoid Diabetes
There’s now evidence to suggest that gum maladies can bring about diabetes as well. Gum disease weakens the body’s ability to regulate its glucose levels. Specifically, the bacteria that bring about periodontal disorders produce substances that can alter the rates at which cells metabolize carbohydrates. It’s also possible that the body becomes more resistant to its own insulin after it combats the bacteria associated with gum disease, and glucose levels thus remain elevated. Over time, that condition can result in diabetes.
Decrease Risk of Premature Birth
Finally, as the staff members at Whiteman Dental could tell you, there’s a relationship between oral hygiene and healthy pregnancies. Scientific studies have reported that women afflicted with gum disease have higher risks of delivering their babies prematurely, since periodontal ailments can prompt the production of labor-inducing fluids.
Of course, there are plenty of reasons to brush your teeth for the sake of your mouth. By brushing thoroughly each day, you’ll have fewer cavities, fresher breath, and brighter smiles. In short, take care of your teeth and your mouth and your entire body will be sure to thank you for your constant efforts.
