Research is increasingly showing a strong relationship between dental care, specifically gum disease, and medical conditions. This is commonly known as the mouth-body connection. Gum disease has been linked to increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, premature birth and low birth-weight babies.
Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental exams are important to ensure a healthy disease-free mouth. Consult with your dentist if you have or are at risk for:
- heart disease or high blood pressure
- diabetes
- cancer, particularly pancreatic cancer
- are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
Just as genetics, exercise, nutrition, stress and personal habits contribute to an individual's overall wellness, scientists are discovering the mouth-body connection. In fact, more dental and health insurance companies are covering extra dental cleanings for at-risk patients because the link between oral health and general health is so strong.
Visit the links below to learn more about specific medical conditions and how they're linked to dental care and gum disease. You can also watch a
KARE 11 Showcase Minnesota interview on the topic, with one of Metro Dentalcare's dentist, Melissa Naidyhorski.
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