Diabetes

When gum disease is left to worsen and progress, it can affect the body’s ability to use insulin. Insulin resistance can lead to high blood sugar, which together can lead to Type 2 Diabetes. With this condition, gum disease can worsen even more, leading to gum infection. With strong oral care and regular dental checkup, this can be prevented. 

Heart Disease

According to the American Academy of Periodontology, people with gum disease are twice as likely to be diagnosed with heart disease. Gum disease and heart disease are connected, and good oral hygiene is a powerful weapon against it. Another study has shown that when common issues like gum disease and cavities are present in the mouth, they were able to predict heart disease just as well as cholesterol levels.

Bone Loss

With gum disease, the bacteria causing the infection gradually eat away at the jawbone and connecting ligaments. Bone loss cannot be reversed on its own and can lead to even more tooth loss, oral disease, and pain. The reversal process can be quite expensive, involving dentures or implants.

Cancer

 Just like with heart disease, gum disease and certain cancers, like esophagus and stomach cancer, are linked. While there has not been concrete evidence proving this, there have been studies that have shown a strong correlation between the two.

New How to Improve Your Oral Health

Obviously, brushing twice a day and flossing every day is important for oral health, being the most well-known oral health recommendations. However, we’ve also pulled some tips from the American Dental Association:

• Brush twice a day
  
• Use an electric toothbrush
  
• Clean between your teeth once a day
• Rinse with mouthwash once or twice a day
  

• Drink tap water, most contains fluoride
  
• Stop all tobacco use
  
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet with dairy and fiber
  
• Visit your dentist for regular checkups, cleaning, and exams