The mouth is often referred to as the “gateway to your general health.” Although oral and overall health are often viewed separately, there is a direct connection between the two. Several oral health issues can affect your overall health and vice versa. While you might have heard dental problems can raise your risk of cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and respiratory complications, those aren’t the only concerns. Recent research has found a connection between poor oral hygiene and metabolic syndrome, which is a cluster of conditions that can increase your risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and stroke. Here’s how the health of your smile can influence your metabolism.
Obstructive sleep apnea is a common disorder that causes a person to stop breathing frequently while sleeping. Although chronic snoring and fatigue are frequent symptoms of the condition, the complications don’t end there. Believe it or not, untreated sleep apnea significantly increases your risk of auto accidents because of drowsy driving. Failure to get a good night’s rest can lead to sleep deprivation, which can create a recipe for disaster if you get behind the wheel. Thankfully, your dentist has the solutions you need to treat your sleep apnea to improve your quality of life and lower your risk of accidents.
Throughout your life, you never expected to lose a permanent tooth, but now you’re among the 120 million Americans who are missing at least 1. Although tooth loss is often viewed as only an aesthetic concern, there are other complications that can significantly impact your oral health. Not to mention, certain foods may be too difficult to chew. You don’t need to skip your favorite meals or put your remaining teeth at risk. Your dentist can