Being meticulous with oral hygiene can keep your entire body healthy!

Many patients are unaware that the smile’s health can impact the body’s health. With meticulous oral hygiene habits, patients in Hamilton, Ontario, can reduce their risk of many conditions affecting the body. Dr. Karen Ho and her team at Dentistry on Parkdale can educate you on this link, called the “oral-systemic connection.”

Understanding the oral-systemic connection

The oral-systemic connection is best described as the relationship between a person’s oral health and overall physical health and wellness. This connection is more important than ever, as research has shown that oral health can directly affect physical health. This is why you must take proper care of your teeth and gums over a lifetime to avoid developing other medical conditions. Periodontal disease is found to be an infection in which the bacteria in the mouth enter the bloodstream and can increase one’s risk of health conditions, including heart disease and diabetes.

What can cause periodontal disease?

Some causes of periodontal disease include poor oral hygiene habits, including not brushing and flossing daily or failing to visit a dentist regularly for preventive care. This allows bacteria to grow in the mouth and contribute to the development of infections that lead to bone, gum, and tooth loss. This is why patients must take good care of their smile at home and see their dentist at least every six months for cleanings and evaluations.

What conditions can be caused by poor oral hygiene and periodontal disease?

Some of the medical concerns that can develop due to poor care of the smile include:

• Cardiovascular (heart) disease
• Increased risk of strokes
• Diabetes
• Complications during a woman’s pregnancy, including preterm delivery and low birth weight

How can a person prevent periodontal disease?

The best way to avoid periodontal disease is by practicing good oral hygiene. This includes brushing and flossing as directed. Some patients may also find that integrating mouthwash into their routine can keep their smile free from bacteria. Working with Dr. Karen Ho is also a great way to educate yourself further on ways to protect your smile from periodontal disease.

Call our office to learn more about periodontal disease today!

Are you interested in learning more about good oral hygiene practices? Please call 905-547-4940 to schedule an appointment at our Hamilton, ON, practice today.

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Dr. Karen Ho is a trusted dentist serving patients of all ages in Hamilton, Ontario. Having studied at prestigious institutes such as McMaster University and University of Toronto and trained at Hartford Hospital (General Practice Residency), she opened her private practice in 2003.

Dr. Ho is committed to lifelong learning as she believes that she can serve her community better by constantly updating herself. She is affiliated with many professional organisations like the Academy of General Dentistry, Institute for Clinical Practice of Pediatric Dentistry, The Dawson Academy Study Club, Niagara Peninsula Dental Diagnostic Study Club, Hamilton Chapter of the Seattle Study Club (Founding Member), and Boston and Tufts Universities.