Oral Health and Whole-Body Wellness
A healthy mouth plays a central role in your overall physical wellness.
The Smile Architects understands that strong oral health shapes so much of how our patients feel day to day, and our services are built to help patients protect or restore that health. A mouth kept clear of harmful bacteria, infection, and inflammation is better able to keep germs and illness from taking hold and spreading further. Sturdy teeth, healthy gums, and a properly aligned bite also play a major part in a smile that looks and functions well. When a patient has already lost one or more teeth, implants offer a way to restore oral and overall health by replacing the missing teeth and helping to slow further bone loss.
What great oral health helps you do
- Eat and chew nourishing foods without discomfort
- Help your body fend off infection and illness
- Rest easier through a full night’s sleep
- Feel a stronger overall sense of well-being
- Smile with confidence
How we watch for signs that your oral health may be affecting your overall health
- Early signs of oral cancer
- Whether you can chew and eat without unwanted sensitivity
- Sleep quality, checked by looking for evidence of bruxism (or teeth grinding) and watching for signs of snoring and sleep apnea
Health conditions that early research suggests may be linked to gum disease
Diabetes
Studies suggest that people living with diabetes face a higher risk of developing gum disease, and that those with advanced periodontal disease may find it more difficult to keep their blood sugar levels well managed.
Systemic Health Conditions
While the science in this area remains inconclusive, the following health conditions appear to share some connection with periodontal disease.
Osteoporosis. Bone loss does not just affect the bones that support healthy posture and movement. It can also weaken the jaw bone, which may lead to tooth loss once the teeth no longer have a solid foundation for support.
Respiratory Disease. When bacteria growing in the oral cavity are inhaled into the lungs, they can contribute to respiratory diseases such as pneumonia.
Cancer. The American Academy of Periodontology reports that men with gum disease face a greater likelihood of developing certain cancers, including kidney, pancreatic, and blood cancers.
Researchers also continue to study whether gum disease may be connected to heart disease, memory function, and pre-term or low birth weight babies.
Scheduling regular cleanings and exams with our office helps you achieve and maintain strong oral health while lowering your risk of gum disease and its associated health effects.