Healthy Gums Make for Happy Bodies

You probably get an earful about the importance of brushing and flossing your teeth each time you visit your Valencia dentist. Yes, regular brushing will keep your teeth white and shiny and help your smile dazzle, but your oral hygiene routine does so much more than greaten your grin. By flossing and brushing multiple times per day, you’re also protecting your gums, which act as a gateway to your entire body. Today, we’re going to look at why keeping your gums healthy is essential to overall health.

Healthy Gums Help Prevent Cancer

Leaving teeth uncleaned and unflossed puts the gums at risk for inflammation. This type of gum disease, known as gingivitis, can lead to the development of periodontitis, which affects the tissue that support the teeth and can lead to tooth loss.

A study of more than 51,000 men found that those with a history of gum disease were at much greater risk of developing pancreatic cancer (64% more likely) than those who’ve never had gum disease. While there’s still no concrete evidence that periodontitis can cause pancreatic cancer, the link between the two is certain.

Healthy Gums Help Prevent Heart Disease

Unhealthy gums are more prone to regular bleeding. When inflamed, the tissues surrounding the teeth become more sensitive and are more easily injured. The unsettling truth of the matter is that these open wounds create pathways for bacteria in the mouth to enter the bloodstream. These bacteria cause clots to form more easily, which increases your risk of heart disease.

By establishing a regular oral hygiene routine with your Valenica dentist, you can help keep your gums resilient and strong, closing off these gateways to the bloodstream.

Healthy Gums Help Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease

Although the science behind this theory is new, recent studies from NYU found that “subjects with Alzheimer’s disease had a significantly higher level of antibodies and inflammatory molecules associated with periodontal disease in their plasma compared to healthy people.” Again, while there isn’t sufficient evidence to say that gum disease causes Alzheimer’s disease, the link between the two conditions is undeniable.

Although it may seem scary, there’s nothing to fear! By regularly brushing, flossing, and visiting your Valencia dentist, you can maintain a smile that is both happy and healthy! Remember, you must pay attention to your teeth and your gums to keep your mouth and body strong! 

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