The connection between a straight smile and overall well-being may not be clear, but your dentist knows there is a path. Really, it only takes a hop, skip and a jump to understand.
How Crooked Teeth Affect Oral Health
The areas where teeth are crowded or overlapping are difficult, if not impossible, to clean thoroughly. Consequently, plaque, tarter, and harmful bacteria accumulate on these surfaces, increasing the risk of cavities and periodontal (gum) disease.
Just as those who wear braces must maintain an ideal oral hygiene routine, children and adults with misaligned teeth must be vigilant when it comes to cleaning their teeth. Otherwise, an abundance of bacteria can threaten the hard and soft tissues of the mouth.
There are several illnesses that have an established relationship with your oral health. Preliminary research has revealed that the following conditions can be caused by, or aggravated by gum disease.
Diabetes
Children with diabetes are more susceptible to contracting infections. In fact, periodontal disease is often determined to be a complication of diabetes.
Research has also shown that the relationship goes both ways, and suggests periodontal disease contributes to spikes in blood sugar. Severe gum disease can actually increase blood sugar, putting those with diabetes at an increased risk for complications.
Heart Disease
Several independent studies have shown that periodontal disease is associated with heart disease. One found that gum disease was a greater risk factor for heart disease than high cholesterol levels.
Some scientists believe that inflammation caused by periodontal disease may be responsible for the association, and others have pointed to a potent bacteria that lives in both arteries and gum tissue. Periodontal disease can also worsen existing heart conditions. Antibiotics are often prescribed to patients at risk for infective endocarditis before dental procedures.
Asthma and Other Respiratory Disease
A recent study that appeared in the Journal of Periodontology indicates that people with gum disease are five times more likely to develop asthma when compared with people who maintain good oral health.
Respiratory diseases such as pneumonia can be caused by inhaling oral bacteria into the lungs, especially in people with periodontal disease.
While straight teeth by themselves don’t increase your chances of experiencing any of the above conditions, poor oral hygiene is directly related.
A uniformly straight smile offers a boost to self-confidence and allows your child to take better care of their teeth and gums.
Call Lahair & Gallagher Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics in Worcester to Learn More
Our dentists are committed to helping kids achieve a straight and healthy smile as a foundation for their long-term health and well-being. Our focus is always on the big picture, and we are here to support your child both now and for their future oral health.