Dentist in Orlando for a Healthy Mouth and Body

You know your dental health is important for your teeth and gums; however, it influences more than just a beautiful smile. Your oral health is directly linked to your general health. If you do not care for your smile at home and with regular care from your dentist in Orlando, it can lead to several health issues that can affect your body. Thankfully, you can protect your mouth and body with a proactive approach to your oral hygiene.

Mouth and Body Connection

Good oral hygiene can prevent several dental issues, like bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease. Besides a healthy smile, researchers are finding new reasons to brush and floss, like preventing certain medical disorders. In fact, research shows certain oral health issues, like gum disease, significantly increase your risk of serious health concerns, like heart attack, stroke, and diabetic complications.

Saliva Testing

Essentially, your mouth acts as a window to the rest of your body. During routine appointments for a cleaning and checkup, your dentist can learn a lot about your oral and general health. A simple saliva swab provides key insight into certain diseases that affect your body, like systemic conditions. The Academy of General Dentistry reports more than 90% of systemic diseases produce oral symptoms.

Besides systemic disease, a saliva test can help to detect other concerns as well, such as:

• Cortisol levels
• Certain cancer markers
• Environmental toxins
• Hormone and antibody levels

Gum Disease

Among the leading oral health concern to impact the rest of your body is gum disease, which affects at least 50% of adults. The infection develops from bacteria found in plaque and tartar accumulations. It destroys the supporting structures of your teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss if it is not treated, but that is not the only concern.

The bacteria responsible for the infection can also enter your bloodstream, causing inflammation throughout your body. This increases your risk of various health issues, such as cardiovascular disease, respiratory infections, Alzheimer’s disease, and pre-term labor.

Dentist Near Me for a Healthy Mouth & Body

You can combat bad breath and protect your mouth and body from complications by maintaining your oral hygiene. Not only will you keep your teeth and gums healthy but promote your overall well-being.

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day for 2 minutes each session using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Use high-quality dental floss to clean in between each tooth and around the gum line nightly.
• Visit your dentist twice a year for a cleaning and checkup.
• Do not smoke or drink alcohol in excess.
• Eat a balanced diet limited in sugars and starches.

You can invest in your general health by maintaining a healthy smile.

About Dr. John E. Russo

Dr. John E. Russo strives to create a great experience for each patient as he helps you reach optimal oral health. With a focus on prevention, he offers the individualized solutions you need to maintain a healthy smile. Contact our office today to schedule your next appointment for a cleaning and checkup.

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