The teeth and gums are not just tools for chewing, playing a leading role in the physical and psychological health.

You have a grudge against dentists? You should not, because regular dental care is also essential to the healthy weight, exercise, good nutrition and a life without tobacco. The evidence is increasing that the gum disease and other oral diseases can have adverse consequences as obesity and high cholesterol, all risk factors for cardiovascular disease, stroke, of diabetes and cancer.

It is common for dentists to be the first to detect these diseases by a simple examination of the mouth. So if you think the free toothbrush is the main advantage of semi-annual dental examination, think again. "It is essential to have a good dental hygiene. A healthy mouth is a prerequisite for health, "said Dr. Paul Sclodnick, dentist in Maple, Ontario. Moreover, beyond considerations of physical, poor oral health leads to a lot of psychological problems: it can affect both self-esteem and quality of life.

Cardiovascular Health

Brush your teeth every day and use dental floss can protect us from cardiovascular disease, arterial blockages and stroke. The results of a study published in the Journal of Periodontology show that bacteria caused by gum disease may seep into the blood stream and then in the heart arteries. Another study, published in the Journal of Dental Research, establishes a link between periodontal disease and higher risk of blood clots, which can promote both the heart attack that stroke. According to Dr. Sclodnick, it is important that your dentist knows your medical history - including illnesses in your family - and the medications you are taking. This information will allow it to better monitor your oral health and recommend a medical consultation it detects any signs of disease.

Diabetes

People with diabetes are more prone to develop cavities and more susceptible to gum disease and oral infections or losing teeth. In return, these diseases can make diabetes more difficult to control because of an increased presence of bacteria transmitted by blood, which results in increased blood sugar levels. Although the link between diabetes and poor oral health is recognized for years, a study published in Diabetes Care confirm that people with periodontal disease (a serious gum disease) are more susceptible to diabetes type 2. Other oral diseases can also occur in diabetics, such as dry mouth (which can cause tooth decay) and thrush (an infection of the mouth of fungus). Finally, new research published in the Journal of Dental Research reveals that women with an inflammatory disease of the gums are more prone to diabetes in pregnancy.

Osteoporosis

Radiographs routine made the dentist can detect not only caries but also bone loss and low bone density of the gums, which are sometimes a sign of bone loss in other parts of the skeleton, as U.S. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, in Bethesda, Maryland.

Oral cancer

This disease affects malignant lips, tongue, tonsils and back of the throat. Its symptoms (red or white patches on the gums and throat, swelling of the cheek or sores that do not heal) can be detected by the dentist during the examination. "The detection of oral cancer can often detect health problems that have escaped to the doctor," said Dr. Sclodnick. "During a routine examination, I found a swelling in the region of the thyroid in one patient. I recommended him to consult his doctor to do further examination. These have revealed a thyroid tumor, for which the patient was able to receive early treatment. "

Pregnancy

It is important, if you wish to become pregnant, to first make an appointment with your dentist. As part of a study of the Chapel Hill School of Medicine in North Carolina has established a link between periodontal disease in the mother and the onset of eclampsia. Moreover, according to Health Canada, a pregnant woman suffering from gingivitis or periodontitis is more likely to give birth prematurely or to give birth to a baby small weight. This is due to bacteria present in the mouth, which can infect the placenta or amniotic fluid. If a mother suffers from gum disease, regular visits to the dentist will help to keep his gums as healthy as possible.

Sinusitis

In rare cases, a mobile dent in the upper gum or gum inflammation can promote the infiltration of bacteria in the sinus cavities. This can lead to chronic inflammation of the maxillary sinus. "The roots of the upper teeth are known to penetrate into the bone near the sinuses, which is weakened by the infection," said Dr. Simon McGrail, a otorhinolaryngologiste Wolfville, Nova Scotia.

Low self-esteem

Who has not dreamed of having the smile of superstars? But in contrast, poor oral health can affect self-esteem and value that there is agreement. In this regard, a report published by the Journal of Community Health Nursing shows that 53% of people suffering from serious dental problems and light have little self-esteem. "Studies have also shown that people who wear a smile attractive have more confidence in them and have better interpersonal relationships and professional," said Dr. Sclodnick. "There are several ways to improve her smile, whether the traditional method is to whiten teeth to crowns and implants. "

Links between oral health and general health

Headache and migraine pain teeth, tightness and gnashing of teeth, as well as oral infections can cause headaches or migraines.

Psychological well-being of the gums and teeth in poor condition, bad breath and unattractive smile can affect self-esteem and quality of life.

Chronic sinusitis can be caused by oral bacteria that seeps into the sinuses through infected teeth.

Inflammatory bowel disease such diseases can be detected by the swelling of the cheeks or gums.

Osteoporosis Older people, especially women, with a loss of teeth and bone loss in the jaw are more likely to suffer from bone loss in other parts of the skeleton.

Cardiovascular disease Poor dental hygiene increases the risk of clogged arteries, blood clots, heart disease and stroke.

The pregnant women with gum disease are more likely to suffer from diabetes to pregnancy and child birth to a premature or low weight.

The renal malari halitosis (bad breath), accompanied by a loss of the jaw bone can be a sign of kidney disease.

Earaches called "pain irradiated ears" in adults, this disease may be caused by bad teeth.

Diabète gum disease increases the risk of diabetes and type 2 diabetes said makes it more difficult to control.