As we welcome the crisp autumn air here in Upper Arlington, October brings with it more than just pumpkin spice and fall foliage. It's also Dental Hygiene Awareness Month! At Greentree Dental Group, we're passionate about helping our Columbus area families maintain healthy smiles. But did you know that the health of your mouth can impact your entire body?
This month, we're exploring seven surprising ways your oral health connects to your overall wellness. So, grab a cup of tea (just remember to brush afterward!), and let's dive into the fascinating world of whole-body health – starting with your smile.
1. Your Teeth and Your Heart
You might not think your dental hygiene routine has much to do with your heart, but the connection is stronger than you might realize. Research shows that people with gum disease are at higher risk for heart problems. But why?
The culprit is bacteria. When your gums are inflamed, bacteria from your mouth can enter your bloodstream and travel to your heart. This can lead to inflammation in your blood vessels, increasing your risk of heart disease and stroke.
Here's a startling fact: according to the American Academy of Periodontology, people with gum disease are nearly twice as likely to have heart disease (1). That's why at Greentree Dental, we always stress the importance of regular check-ups and cleanings. It's not just about preventing cavities – it's about protecting your heart, too!
2. Oral Health and Diabetes
If you or a family member are living with diabetes, paying extra attention to oral health is crucial. Diabetes and gum disease have a two-way relationship: high blood sugar can lead to gum problems, and gum inflammation can make it harder to control blood sugar levels.
For our Upper Arlington patients managing diabetes, we offer specialized care to help maintain optimal oral health. This includes more frequent cleanings and checks for early signs of gum disease. By keeping your mouth healthy, you're giving yourself an edge in managing your diabetes.
Remember, if you're noticing any changes in your gums – like redness, swelling, or bleeding – don't wait to give us a call. Early intervention can make a big difference in your oral health and diabetes management.
3. Your Mouth and Your Lungs
Take a deep breath – now thank your healthy mouth for it! Believe it or not, the state of your oral health can affect your respiratory system. How? It all comes down to bacteria again.
When harmful bacteria build up in your mouth, you can inadvertently breathe them into your lungs. This can lead to respiratory infections, including pneumonia. This is particularly important for both our youngest and oldest patients in Columbus.
Maintaining good oral health is extra important for children with asthma or other respiratory conditions. And for our senior patients, who may be more susceptible to respiratory infections, a clean and healthy mouth is a key defense.
At Greentree Dental, we offer family-focused care that considers these connections. From teaching proper brushing techniques to our little ones to providing specialized care for seniors, we're here to help every member of your family breathe easy.
4. Dental Health During Pregnancy
Expecting a new addition to your family? Congratulations! As you prepare for your little one, don't forget about your dental health. Pregnancy can increase your risk of gum disease due to hormonal changes.
But it's not just about your health – your oral health can affect your baby too. Studies have shown a link between gum disease and premature birth or low birth weight (2). That's why we recommend pregnant women come in for a check-up during their pregnancy.
Our team at Greentree Dental is experienced in providing gentle, safe dental care for expectant mothers. We'll help you maintain a healthy smile throughout your pregnancy, contributing to your health and your baby's.
5. Oral Health and Brain Function
Here's some food for thought: your oral health might affect your cognitive function. Recent research has shown potential links between gum disease and an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia (3).
While more research is needed, scientists believe that the inflammation associated with gum disease might contribute to inflammation in the brain. This highlights just how important it is to maintain good oral health throughout your life.
For our young patients, a healthy mouth supports overall health as their brains develop. And for our older patients in Upper Arlington, taking care of your teeth and gums is part of a holistic approach to healthy aging.
6. Your Teeth and Your Diet
You are what you eat – and so are your teeth! A healthy diet is crucial for maintaining strong teeth and gums. But it works the other way too: the health of your mouth can significantly impact your diet and nutrition.
Dental problems like missing teeth, ill-fitting dentures, or painful cavities can make eating a varied, nutritious diet difficult. This can lead to nutritional deficiencies that affect your overall health.
At Greentree Dental, we don't just treat dental issues – we help prevent them. Our team can provide personalized advice on maintaining a tooth-friendly diet. And if you're dealing with dental problems that affect your eating, we offer a range of solutions, from dental implants to comfortable, well-fitting dentures.
7. Smiles and Self-Esteem
Last but certainly not least, let's talk about the power of a confident smile. Your oral health doesn't just affect your physical well-being – it plays a big role in your mental and emotional health too.
For both children and adults, feeling self-conscious about your smile can impact your social interactions and self-esteem. Whether it's a child feeling uncomfortable about crooked teeth or an adult hesitant to smile because of stains or missing teeth, dental issues can have a real effect on quality of life.
That's why we're proud to offer various cosmetic dentistry options at Greentree Dental. From professional whitening to Invisalign, we can help you achieve a smile you're excited to show off.
Because when you feel good about your smile, it shows – and that confidence can positively impact every area of your life.
Your Partner in Whole-Body Health
As we celebrate Dental Hygiene Awareness Month, we hope these seven connections have shown you how important oral health is to your overall well-being. From your heart to your lungs, from pregnancy to healthy aging, a healthy mouth plays a crucial role in a healthy body.
At Greentree Dental Group, we're committed to providing comprehensive, family-focused care that considers these whole-body connections. Our team uses advanced technology and personalized approaches to ensure every member of your family – from the youngest to the oldest – receives top-quality dental care.
This October, why not take a step towards better overall health by scheduling a check-up? Whether you're due for a cleaning, have concerns about gum health, or are interested in cosmetic options to boost your confidence, we're here to help.
Give us a call at 614.459.5511 or book online to schedule your appointment. Let's work together to keep you and your family smiling brightly and feeling great – from head to toe!
About Greentree Dental Group
At Greentree Dental Group, we believe in patient-focused care that goes beyond just treating teeth. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing comprehensive dental services for every member of your family.
From pain-free digital x-rays and regular cleanings to advanced treatments like dental implants and the innovative HealthyStart® System for children, we offer a wide range of solutions tailored to your unique needs.
Don't just take our word for it. Here's what one of our patients, Gretchen D., had to say:
"Kids day was great. My little ones were excited about going to the dentist! The hygienists provided specific information on where the girls could improve their brushing. Both kids really liked Dr. Ferguson who did their check up after the cleaning. The office staff is friendly and welcoming. Overall a great experience!"
Experience the Greentree difference for yourself. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards a healthier, happier smile.
