The Mouth and Body Connection is Real

There really is a mouth and body connection.

Rodeo Dental explains that your mouth is the gateway to the rest of your body and if it is healthy, chances are, the rest of you body is as well. According to the

American Dental Association

, taking the best care of your teeth and gums as you can is important for a healthy smile and a healthy heart.

Open your mouth and take a good look. If you see red and swollen gums or teeth that you don’t like the look of,

schedule an appointment with your dentist

and your doctor. Your mouth can detect early symptoms and signs of systemic diseases such as diabetes and AIDS. According to the

Academy of General Dentistry

90 percent of systemic diseases produce oral symptoms.

Ask your doctor to collect your saliva. What comes out of your salivary glands will tell your physician volumes about what is really going on with the rest of your body. Regular salivary gland testing can detect environmental toxins, HIV, hepatitis, illegal drugs, hormones and antibodies and can replace regular blood tests when it comes to both monitoring and diagnosing diabetes, cirrhosis of the liver and Parkinson’s disease.

Cardiovascular Disease

Oral inflammation from mouth bacteria found in both gingivitis and the more serious periodontal disease could also be to blame for blood clots and clogged arteries. Keeping your mouth and body connection healthy and free from gum disease can help keep you in the low risk category when it comes to cardiovascular disease. Recent studies indicate that mouth bacteria causes inflammation in the arteries and throughout the body. Your arteries are susceptible to plaque buildup and scientists believe that plaque buildup is a result of gum disease.

and tooth loss can also be to blame for plaque in the arteries.

Plaque and bacteria from gingivitis and periodontal disease can cause stroke thanks to the plaque buildup on the arteries. Plaque travels through the blood and can attach itself to the walls of your blood vessels. It isn’t normal for bacteria to enter your bloodstream. However, vigorous brushing and flossing and dental treatments that are invasive can give microbes an open invitation disrupting the normal bacteria balance. If this happens, bacteria can enter your bloodstream. Keep your mouth and body connection healthy and

schedule a comprehensive dental exam

today, after all, it really is better to be safe than sorry. Call or click today