We know sometimes you get tired of hearing how important it is that you take care of your teeth and gums. We also know that you feel that is all we talk about. Of course, we’re always going to get after you about brushing and flossing your teeth. We are going to stay on you about regular visits to us as well.
But there is a reason for all of our preaching. Dental health is closely tied to your overall health, and not taking care of your teeth and gums could actually kill you. Don’t believe us? Here are three most common dental issues that could turn deadly.
Tooth Decay
We know, tooth decay sounds very mundane. However, when your teeth become infected, you are creating a double-whammy for your mouth, where diabetes is concerned. More than 100 million Americans either have the disease or are prone to get it. If you already have diabetes, tooth decay can send bacteria into your system. Bacteria can also infect your teeth and gums.
None of this is good for a diabetic, because they are already prone to infections. Also, tooth decay can cause problems for your blood sugar levels as well. Research has also found that if you have poor oral health, including tooth decay, you are at an increased risk of developing the disease. Diabetes kills an estimated 1.5 million Americans every year.
Gum Disease
Hand in hand with tooth decay is gum disease. If gums become inflamed due to tooth decay and gum disease, the bacteria from the infection can get into the bloodstream, and move into the arteries, which causes them to harden. Hardening of the arteries has been linked to blood flow problems, blocked arteries, and an increased risk for heart attack and stroke. You also have the possibility of the infection reaching your heart, which is often fatal. One in every four Americans dies from heart disease every year.
Growths or Abnormalities in the Mouth
If you have poor oral health, you haven’t been going for your regular dental checkups, and you are a smoker, you are leaving yourself open to cancer. Part of any dental examination includes an examination for oral cancers. While oral cancers aren’t the leading cause of cancer deaths, they are very difficult to treat, and cause nearly 15,000 deaths last year.
Worried about your oral health? Give us a call and let us make you an appointment today.