Believe it or not, the phrase “healthy mouth, healthy you,” is more than just a catchy saying. Problems in your mouth can impact your entire body. Before you ignore that toothache for the third week in a row, learn more about why you might want to find an emergency dentist in Phoenix, AZ to treat it.
Spreading Infection
Untreated infections in any area of the body can spread, and the mouth is no exception. Because our mouths are full of bacteria, it is easy for inflamed gums and damaged teeth to become infected. Prolonged infection can spread locally and be carried through the bloodstream to other areas of the body.
Infections that start in the mouth have been linked to infection in the brain, heart and other areas. Endocarditis, an infection in the lining of the heart, is one of the more well-documented complications. If you know you have damaged teeth, an abscess, or itchy, inflamed gums, it is important to seek treatment before a little discomfort becomes a big problem.
Oral Hygiene and Heart Disease
Research has shown that people with oral disease are more likely to suffer from heart attacks. Heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular illnesses may be caused or exacerbated by inflammation and infection in the mouth.
Researchers suggest that chronic inflammation in the mouth can cause inflammation elsewhere, including the heart. While the conclusions are not absolute, a review of 120 studies by the Journal of Periodontology and the American Journal of Cardiology concluded that oral disease is a risk factor for heart disease.
For Pregnant Mothers
As with heart disease, research suggests that the inflammation caused by oral disease could cause complications for expecting mothers. Infection from periodontitis or gum disease, could lead to pre-term labor.
Excessive bacteria in the gums can travel from the mouth into the bloodstream. If the bacteria reach the uterus, this could trigger the release of the hormone prostaglandin. Prostaglandin is a key hormone in labor and is even introduced artificially to trigger labor when women are late delivering.
The first step in maintaining a healthy mouth is to schedule an appointment with your dentist Phoenix, AZ. Your dentist can address your concerns and teach you proper oral hygiene techniques. Daily brushing and twice-yearly visits to the dentist are the best way to keep your smile healthy and bright.