Oral Health, A Vital Link To Health and Wellness

Oral health is a key part of overall well-being and physical health. At Fresh Smiles we believe that excellent oral health has a significant impact on our patients lives. Keeping the mouth free of harmful bacteria, infection and inflammation helps to prevent the entry and spread of germs or illness. Having strong, healthy teeth, gums and proper bite are also critical to a beautiful and healthy smile. For patients who have already experienced tooth loss, implants can help repair and maintain oral and overall health by replacing natural teeth and minimizing bone loss. Great oral health helps you to:

  • Eat and chew healthy nourishing foods
  • Defend your body against infection and illness
  • Get a good night’s sleep
  • Enjoy a feeling of well-being
  • Have the confidence to smile

At Fresh Smiles we recognise the important connection between the mouth and the body, we routinely watch for signs of problems that may affect your overall health such as:

  • Signs of oral cancer
  • Ability to chew and eat without unnecessary sensitivity
  • Quality of sleep by checking for evidence of bruxism (or teeth grinding) and also watching for signs of snoring and sleep apnea

Researchers know there’s a synergic relationship between oral health and overall wellness. Gum disease is linked to a host of illnesses including heart disease, diabetes, respiratory disease, osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis. By combing through 1,000-plus medical histories, researchers found that people with gum disease were twice as likely as others to die from a heart attack and three times as likely to have a stroke.

Ongoing inflammation in your mouth can allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, which may lead to more inflammation in other parts of your body, such as the heart.

Diabetes – Research has indicated that people with diabetes are more at risk for developing gum disease and that diabetics who have advanced periodontal disease may experience some additional challenges in managing their blood sugar.

Systemic Diseases that affect the whole body – Although the scientific research at this point remains inconclusive, these diseases appear to have a link to periodontal conditions:

  • Osteoporosis – Bone loss not only affects the bones that support healthy posture and movement, but can affect the jaw bone and lead to tooth loss due to the loss of a solid foundation to support the teeth.
  • Respiratory Disease – The aspiration of bacteria growing in the oral cavity can contribute to the development of respiratory diseases such as pneumonia.
  • Cancer – According to research, men with gum disease are more likely to develop specific types of cancer such as kidney, pancreatic and blood cancers.

Scientists are also currently researching to determine if there is a correlation between gum disease, memory, and pre-term or low birth weight babies.

Make an appointment today to discuss any concerns you may have about your orthodontic procedures, we will advise and support you and give you the information you need to ensure your oral health and general health are on track or compromised.

If you would like more information, please contact our friendly reception staff at Fresh Smiles Belmont & Fresh Smiles Newtown on 5244 4466 to learn more.