A healthy immune system is very important do have, but it is especially crucial during the current pandemic. While doctors and scientists continue to work around the clock to protect people from this disease, it is important to do whatever you can to protect your health. Wearing a mask, standing six-feet apart and taking good care of oral and overall health are all great ways to do this. Wondering how protecting your mouth from damaging health conditions like gum disease is related to immune system protection? Keep reading to find out!
Dental Issues That Put the Immune System at Risk
Gum disease, an oral infection that can result in tooth and bone loss, is the result of a buildup of harmful bacteria in the mouth that causes the gums to bleed and become swollen. Gum disease has four stages: gingivitis, moderate gum disease and advanced gum disease. If you have gingivitis, the teeth have not been damaged, and your dentist can help you reverse it. Slight gum disease, the second stage, is not reversible, but it can be managed. During this phase, infection has reached the jawbone and initiated the deterioration process. If you don’t seek treatment, it will progress into moderate gum disease, which affects the gums, jawbone and teeth. The final stage of gum disease is advanced gum disease. At this point, the fibers and bone that support your teeth have been destroyed and could result in a dental extraction.
How Gum Disease Affects the Immune System
Gum disease makes it difficult for your body to fight off other infections and health issues in your body. A poor dental care routine and unhealthy diet can compromise both your oral and overall health. Though bacteria from your mouth rarely enter your bloodstream, infection can travel through your veins to multiple areas of your body. If your immune system is having to fight germs in multiple locations of your body, especially vital organs like the heart or brain, your system can become weak.
Brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day, flossing at least once a day and visiting your dentist every six months for a dental cleaning is an excellent way to protect your oral health. You can also give your immune system a boost by eating a healthy diet, proper dental care and avoiding bad habits like smoking and frequent alcohol consumption.
About the Practice
At Advanced Smile Design, Drs. Krunal Patel and Barry Isdaner share a mutual passion for providing top-quality, comprehensive dental care. They both believe getting to know a patient is important to understand their needs, so taking time with each patient to discuss issues, concerns and dental goals is key to offering personalized treatment. If you’re ready to get your dental health back on track and protect your immune system, visit the website or contact the office at (215) 657-3369 to set an appointment.
