The Oral-Systemic Connection

As a provider of dental care in St. Louis, Carondelet Park Dental Care understands how important the well-being of the gums is. However, a lot of people do not understand that oral health is about more than being able to eat and speak effectively. The oral-systemic connection is a vital aspect of your overall health, and going to our practice twice a year is the best way to protect it.

What Is the Connection?

The oral-systemic connection is the relationship between the health of the mouth and the health of the body. If the mouth’s health falters, your likelihood of developing certain diseases increases dramatically. This relationship is not one-directional; certain health conditions can make your smile more prone to decay and disease as well.

Diabetes

One of the best-known examples of the oral-systemic connection is the influence diabetes and gum disease have on each other.

When you have gingivitis or periodontitis, your body has a much harder time regulating your blood sugar. As a result, your risk of developing diabetes increases. If you already have diabetes, gum disease exacerbates your existing symptoms.

The reverse is also true; having diabetes makes it easier to develop gum disease. Your body has a diminished ability to fight off gingivitis and other infections.

Cardiovascular Health

There is also a strong correlation between having periodontitis and an increased risk for several cardiovascular diseases. The most common conditions made more likely by gum disease are heart attacks and stroke. However, some evidence points to Alzheimer’s being influenced by this infection as well.

The exact connection is still being studied, so it is unfair to say gum disease causes these conditions. However, keeping your mouth healthy seems to encourage your heart to stay healthy.

Contact Us for St. Louis Dental Care

Carondelet Park Dental Care serves the oral health needs of the St. Louis community. These treatment options include the general cleanings and exams which prevent and treat gum disease. For more information, call us today!