Many studies have proven that the oral cavity may be seen as the window into the rest of the body. Your mouth can show signs of malnutrition and other general infections. Many systemic diseases, which are diseases that affect the entire body, can first appear through lesions in the mouth or other oral issues. Your mouth is filled with tons of bacteria, some of which are linked to periodontal disease and tooth decay. The mouth also acts as an entry point to your digestive system and respiratory system, and some of the bacteria present in your mouth can cause problems throughout your body. Periodontitis, an advanced form of periodontal disease, has been proven to be linked to other health problems, such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, and bacterial pneumonia. Additionally, pregnant women with periodontitis may be at an increased risk of delivering their child prematurely and delivering low-birth-weight babies. Many studies have linked periodontal disease to cardiovascular diseases. Oral bacteria may be linked to heart disease, arterial blockages, and stroke. Similarly, certain diseases, such as diabetes, blood cell disorders, HIV and Aids can lower the body’s resistance to infection, therefore making periodontal diseases more severe. Furthermore, people with diabetes often have periodontal diseases. Given these linkages between periodontal disease and overall health, it is important to take preventative measures to maintain your health and wellbeing. Below are some steps you can take to prevent periodontal disease:

• Brush your teeth thoroughly twice daily. Floss your teeth at least once a day.
• Choose oral hygiene products recommended by your dentist.
• Eat a balanced diet.
• Visit your dentist at least twice a year. Professional cleanings are the only way to remove tartar, which traps plaque bacteria along the gum line.
• Provide your dentist with information about recent illnesses or chronic diseases you may have.

            At the Princeton Center for Dental Aesthetics and Implants, we take a holistic approach to dentistry. This means we focus on how your oral health can affect the rest of your body. It is important to take preventative measures not only to ensure your oral health is intact, but also to confirm that the rest of your body is functioning properly. To learn more about our holistic approach, visit our website: https://princetondentist.com/dental-services/advanced-dental-hygiene/  call us at 609-924-1414 to schedule an appointment.