Here are the six ways your oral health affects your overall well-being^

1. Reduces risk of heart disease – Researchers have linked chronic inflammation from gum disease to cardiovascular problems like heart disease, stroke and blood vessel blockages.
2. Improves memory skills – Several studies have shown that people with gingivitis tend to perform worse on memory tests than people who have healthier gums and mouths.
3. Reduces risk of inflammation in the body – Rheumatoid arthritis, which is an inflammation of the joints, has been linked to gum disease.
4. Helps prevent diabetes complications – Studies have shown that people with diabetes and gum disease have more trouble controlling their blood sugar levels.
5. Reduces risk of preterm birth – Pregnant women have an increased chance of developing gum disease. And, women with gum disease are more likely to have a preterm baby with low birth weight.
6. Your routine dental visits are the key!

Even if you take excellent care of your teeth and gums at home, you still need to see a dentist regularly. Your dentist can check for problems that you may not see or feel. Many dental problems don’t become visible or cause pain until they are in more advanced stages. Examples include cavities, gum disease and oral cancer. Regular visits allow your dentist to find early signs of disease which may be easier to treat.

^National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: Part of the National Institutes of Health. Oral health in America: A report of the Surgeon General (Executive Summary). Available at www.nidcr.nih.gov/datastatistics/surgeongeneral/report/executivesummary.htm. Accessed June 17, 2014.