Poor Dental Care Linked to Pneumonia

Dental health problems need to be taken seriously. Small cavities can become major problems down the road, for instance, and left untreated, it can lead to severe discomfort and tooth loss. Gum disease can similarly lead to major dental problems if untreated, causing your teeth to become less stable and misaligned, potentially resulting in tooth loss and other major problems.

It’s for these reasons that meeting with a Philadelphia cosmetic dentist is so important. When you have dental health issues, get them taken care of right away. It’s not just best for your dental health--it’s important for your general well being as well.

Dental Health and Your General Health

It’s a cliché, sure, but all parts of your body are connected. A problem with a tooth may be just the start of a much more serious issue with the soft tissues in your mouth and your jawbone. A little blockage in your salivary glands may be the sign of a serious health issue. And it turns out, gum disease may have an adverse affect on your respiratory health.

Really, good dental care means more than placing some Philadelphia dental crowns can calling it a night; good dental care is about promoting total health, not just of your smile.

Pneumonia and Respiratory Problems

A study in the Journal of Periodontology has found that people who suffer from pneumonia were more likely to have poor periodontal (gum) health. Previous studies have established a link between gum disease and diabetes.

While an exact link hasn’t been established, the correlation is startling. It’s led some to theorize that the bacteria that causes gum disease is inhaled and can harm the lungs. If you notice that you have gums that are red, bleeding, or swollen, be sure to visit our center for cosmetic dentistry near Philadelphia so we can examine the condition of your gums.

What You Can Do at Home for Healthy Gums

There are many simple steps in basic general dental care that you can take in order to improve the health of your gums. For one, be sure to brush and floss regularly. Simply doing that will greatly reduce your chances of developing gum disease and tooth decay. When brushing, be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush so you do not harm your gums. Brush thoroughly but not vigorously, and use circular motions.

What We Can Do to Help You

During your regular checkups, we will be sure to check your overall gum health and run full diagnostics to ensure that your dental health is optimal. If you currently have gum disease, there are numerous restorative dentistry treatments that we can use to make sure the conditions of your gums is improved.

Learn More About Your Dental Care Options

To learn more about gum disease and the links between dental health and overall wellness, be sure to contact our cosmetic dentistry practice in Doylestown today. The entire team here is eager to see you in person.