Four Health Benefits of Dental Cleanings

By now, we hope you know all the teeth-related, gum-related and mouth-related benefits of getting regular dental cleanings in Winnipeg. Just in case you haven’t heard or have forgotten, they include: fewer cavities; a decreased risk of gum disease; and fresher breath. But what about beyond the confines of your mouth? Does having your teeth cleaned regularly by a dentist in Winnipeg have anything to do with your overall health?

Poor oral hygiene is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease

What’s the connection between regular dental cleanings, brushing, flossing and heart health? Neglecting your oral hygiene increases the number of bacteria circulating throughout your body that can lead to inflammation by distributing those harmful bacteria throughout your body. Chronic inflammation is associated with a wide range of serious diseases, including diabetes, cancer, arthritis, Crohn’s disease and heart disease. In the European Journal Preventive Cardiology, one report described a decreased risk of suffering irregular heartbeat and heart failure if you maintain good oral hygiene, including undergoing regular dental cleanings near you.

You’ll have healthier lungs

What’s the connection between your lungs, teeth and gums? Lots of the bacteria in your mouth are beneficial, in fact even essential for your health. Some of those bacteria, though, can cause significant health problems in your mouth and far beyond your mouth. Harmful bacteria in your mouth are easily inhaled into your lungs with your breath and saliva. Dental cleanings to remove plaque, tartar and bacteria from your mouth and to reduce the risk of oral infections will eliminate bacteria that can, when inhaled into your lungs, contribute to the development of lung conditions like bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), pneumonia and emphysema.

Women will have healthier pregnancies

The same dastardly bacteria that can cause periodontitis and threaten the viability of your gums and teeth also affects a developing fetus. At least one study published in the Journal of Natural Science, Biology and Medicine found that pregnant women with gum disease had an increased risk of premature births and the delivery of low-birth infants. Women who are or plan to become pregnant should always let their dentist know to minimize the risks involved with some dental treatments and to enable a specific focus on preventing and eliminating gum disease.

Men will eliminate one risk factor for erectile dysfunction

Guys, what if we told you that getting your teeth cleaned regularly at a dentist near you will eliminate one risk factor for developing erectile dysfunction? It’s true! In one report contained in the Journal of Human Reproductive Sciences, researchers found that men with severe chronic periodontitis were over three times more likely than men with healthy gums to experience erectile dysfunction. Chronic inflammation caused by serious periodontal disease can damage endothelial cells in the blood vessels throughout your entire body, including in a guy’s penis. Receiving regular dental cleanings can reduce this risk.

Undergoing regular dental cleanings near you is not a substitute for healthcare or medical attention for chronic medical conditions. You should always see your doctor to ensure your health and well-being, and to talk about any symptoms you’re experiencing. Having said that, one surefire way to stay as healthy as possible throughout your body is to keep your mouth, teeth and gums as clean as possible. Brushing and flossing your teeth daily is a good first step, but that’s the least you can do. What’s the rest you can do? Have your teeth cleaned by a dentist near you at least twice a year, and more often than that if you experience periodontal disease.