Did you know that poor dental health can increase your risk of heart disease, respiratory infections, and possibly even affect your mental health?

In addition to a great smile, good dental health is essential for overall health.

The science regarding the connection between poor dental health and a negative impact on health and various diseases is becoming clearer in recent years. Periodontal diseases increase the prevalence of diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction and stroke, to name a few. This typically involves local periodontal inflammation that may increase levels of systemic inflammatory mediators, resulting in promotion of atherosclerosis and insulin resistance. A potential link between obesity and periodontitis has also been shown.

Here are some facts you know about dental health –
• People with gum disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease compared to people without periodontitis.
• Some research has shown that people with poor dental health resulting in tooth loss may have an increased risk of dementia.
• People with diabetes are more likely to have periodontal disease. Gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugar, so treating gum disease may help improve diabetes symptoms.
• Gum disease may increase your risk of getting respiratory infections, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and pneumonia, according to the Journal of Periodontology.
• Poor dental health and gum disease has even been related to decreased fertility and increased risk of miscarriage.

Aside from proper brushing, flossing and physical dental care, prevention and treatment of periodontitis require a healthy diet that includes sufficient antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin D, and calcium.From Deanna:  I get my supply of antioxidants from USANA’s CellSentials, often adding extra vitamin D and Calcium Plus.  USANA’s toothpaste made a huge difference to the health of my gums.