There have been countless studies that show there is actually a connection between oral health and a stroke. In fact, these two are connected in more than one way.
When a person has a stroke, they lose blood flow to certain parts of the brain. This can cause memory loss and paralysis of the face. When you are having a hard time medically, it is hard to continue to remember to brush your teeth, which can lead to oral problems. However, the drooping face can also cause oral issues as food is more easily trapped between the cheeks and gums. Brushing your teeth after a stroke is important. Or the food build-up will turn to plaque and cause other diseases.
A stroke can also affect memory, causing one to forget that they need to brush their teeth. A good caregiver will assist the patient with proper oral care. However, many people don’t always go home to a good caregiver. This then leads to bad oral hygiene and care.
Periodontal disease and stroke.
It has also been shown the periodontal disease increases your chances of having a stroke. Periodontal disease or gingivitis both are bacterial infections in the mouth. Studies have shown that 75% of most people have some sort of form of gum disease. But, only 3% seek out treatment for this sort of disease. This is somewhat of a problem.
This plaque and bacteria in the mouth can go uncared for years. However, this bacteria can eventually enter the bloodstream. This is when health problems start to occur. It was found that many people that have a stroke, have a blood clot that has oral bacteria in it. It is believed this bacteria affects the valves, lining, and muscle of the heart as well and can lead to heart disease. There have also been studies that bad oral care can also lead to plaque build-up on the lining of the arteries. This plaque can get loose and shoot to the brain, causing a stroke or it could cause a heart attack or blood clot on the lung too. These are all deadly and very serious but they all lead back to poor oral health.
Good oral hygiene will give you good overall health.
While keeping a pretty smile, you are also maintaining good circulatory health. The two go hand in hand and are directly related in so many ways. This is why it is so important that you visit your dentist Boronia often to ensure that your teeth are, in fact, clean and healthy. If you haven’t been to your dentist in a while, pick up the phone and make an appointment. You might not be just saving your teeth, you could be saving your life.
Talk to your loved ones about the newfound knowledge you have. Many people don’t know that poor teeth directly affect poor circulatory systems. You should see your dentist twice a year to have your teeth properly cleaned and cared for. Also, make sure that you are brushing often and regularly to keep your teeth free of plaque and debris.
FAQ
Does poor oral hygiene lead to poor health?
Yes, poor oral hygiene will lead to poor health, it simply is a matter of time. Be sure that you brush at least once a day, more would be better, and floss as needed. Take time to see your dentist as well as your doctor.
How can I prevent my oral health from deteriorating?
You can visit your dentist at least twice a year for regular cleaning. Should you have periodontal disease or other problems, your local dentist might recommend seeing them more often. You need to brush your teeth once a day, more if possible. Floss regularly or use a Waterpik and eat well. Try to quit smoking when possible and limit soda intake.
Can you reverse gingivitis?
Gingivitis is what is caused by poor oral hygiene. Most adults have some form of it as many don’t see the dentist as they should. It can be reversed with some extra care. Ask your dentist what you can do to help reverse the effects of gingivitis.
