Walled Lake, MI Dentist and Periodontist

At Jacobson Dental Group of Walled Lake, we understand that good oral hygiene is vital, not just for your smile but also for your overall health. As children, we’re taught to brush our teeth twice a day, but is that really enough? And does poor oral health affect more than just your mouth? Emerging research suggests there may be links between poor oral health and conditions like cardiovascular disease and even cognitive decline. Let’s explore how taking care of your teeth can also protect your body and brain.

How Poor Oral Health Affects More Than Just Your Teeth

It’s not just about cavities and gum disease. Poor oral health can impact your whole body. At Jacobson Dental Group of Walled Lake, we emphasize the importance of regular dental care to help protect against serious health risks. Studies show that poor oral hygiene can increase your risk of heart disease, especially in men. Bacteria from inflamed gums can travel to your heart, potentially leading to the hardening of arteries. This can cause blood to thicken, increasing the risk of heart attacks or strokes.

Additionally, poor oral hygiene can impact your lungs. When you breathe in bacteria from your mouth, it can lead to respiratory issues. Overall, maintaining good oral health is essential to keeping other parts of your body healthy as well.

The Link Between Oral Health and Brain Function

There is growing evidence that poor oral hygiene may affect brain function. Studies suggest that gum disease, such as gingivitis, could be linked to dementia. Bacteria from the mouth can travel through nerve pathways or the bloodstream to the brain, potentially contributing to cognitive decline.

Research conducted by Rutgers University found a significant connection between oral health and memory. The study showed that poor oral health might impair complex attention, learning, and memory functions. It also noted a link between oral health and perceived stress, as high levels of stress can cause dry mouth and increase the risk of dental issues. For older adults, this can lead to episodic memory loss or, in severe cases, dementia.

Protecting Your Oral and Overall Health

The good news is that it’s never too late to improve your oral hygiene and protect your health. Start by assessing your current dental care habits.

At Jacobson Dental Group of Walled Lake, we recommend the following steps to keep your mouth and body healthy:

• Brush twice a day: Use a fluoride toothpaste to help strengthen your enamel and protect against decay.
• Floss daily: Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth, preventing gum disease.
• Use mouthwash: An antimicrobial mouthwash can help kill harmful bacteria in your mouth.
• Visit your dentist regularly: Schedule cleanings and exams at least twice a year to maintain your oral health and catch potential issues early.

If you’re unsure where to begin, schedule a visit with Jacobson Dental Group of Walled Lake. Our team will help you develop a personalized plan to maintain your dental health and reduce the risk of serious conditions like heart disease or dementia. We are here to ensure that both your smile and overall health are in great shape!

For a comprehensive checkup, contact Jacobson Dental Group of Walled Lake today. As your trusted dentist in Walled Lake MI, we’re here to help you achieve and maintain excellent oral health for life.