As we age, we become more vulnerable to ailments and disease—sometimes for surprising reasons. Multiple studies have linked an increased risk of diabetes and heart disease to poor dental hygiene.
Bacteria that cause gum disease can actually enter the blood stream and reach other organs and tissues in the body—releasing disease-causing chemicals.
For example, periodontal disease decreases your ability to maintain blood sugar levels, making you more prone to diabetes or making diabetic symptoms worse.
In addition, the more severe your periodontal infection, the higher your risk of developing heart conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart attack.
Oral hygiene should never be overlooked. Make twice-daily brushing and flossing part of your family’s routine. Plus get regular dental checkups. It may affect your health more than you think.
Find more information on this and many other health topics, when you log onto Shine.FM.
Listen to today’s audio here.