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Did you know some dental problems have been found to be in relation to certain health issues? Unfortunately, some dental issues are linked to major health issues that can affect major organs in your body. This is why your dentist, Dr. Ben Taylor, and our dental professionals here in Louisville, Kentucky, want to strongly encourage you to take great care of your teeth.

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a serious dental issue that can be associated with major health issues. It develops when plaque is allowed to live on your teeth and under your gums (especially when your teeth haven’t been brushed in the last 48 hours). Many symptoms of these health problems involve the mouth. Those symptoms include dry mouth, mouth ulcers, excessive oral tissue problems, and swollen gums.

Gum disease has been found to have a relationship with heart disease, stroke, as well as the delivery of preterm, low weight babies for women. Other health issues linked to your oral health include diabetes, leukemia, heart disease, kidney disease, oral cancer, and pancreatic cancer. If you are diligent in your biannual dental cleanings and exams, your dentist can detect these problems at the early stages before they potentially lead to further problems.

To help prevent these health problems, you can take further steps in protecting your smile and body. In addition to visiting your dentist every six months for a routine exam and cleaning, you can brush your smile twice every day, floss your teeth once a day, have a healthy and balanced diet, and avoid smoking and all types of tobacco use.

Give First Care Dental a call at 502-893-5677 if you have any questions or if you would like to know more about how to help your overall and oral health. Our dental professionals here in Louisville, Kentucky, are happy to give you the information and care you need today!