Oral Health: A Window To Your Overall Health

Good oral health is intrinsically related to one’s overall health. Just look at the facts:

• A study in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society and summarized in the National Post newspaper showed that those reporting to brush less that once a day had a 65% increase in the incidence of dementia versus those who brushed daily.
• Because the mouth is a pathway to the body, people who have chronic gum disease are at a higher risk for heart attack, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)
• Up to 91% of patients with heart disease have periodontitis, or gum disease, according to WebMD.
• A study found that people who never or rarely brush their teeth are 70% more likely to suffer heart disease as those who brush twice a day. 
• A study found that by brushing your teeth, you are getting rid of bacteria and therefore decreasing your risk of respiratory diseases such as pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. 

Moral of the story: Visit West Bloomington’s Krengel Dental for a regular checkup every 6 months, brush your teeth and floss twice a day, and contact Dr. Krengel if you have any concerns regarding your oral health!