How Your Oral Health Impacts Your Entire Body
- Office of Michael J. Spitzer, DDS
- Sep 18
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 19
At Michael J. Spitzer, DDS in Costa Mesa, California, our team emphasizes the critical role of oral hygiene during routine dental exams. Your oral health does more than keep your teeth and gums in check—it offers vital clues about your overall well-being. Problems in your mouth can affect your entire body, making it essential to understand the mouth-body connection and take proactive steps to maintain it.
What Is the Mouth-Body Connection?
The mouth-body connection highlights how oral health directly influences systemic health. Research shows that conditions in your mouth can signal or contribute to broader health issues, emphasizing the importance of regular dental care at practices like Dr. Spitzer’s in Costa Mesa, CA.
Health Conditions Linked to Oral Health
Poor oral health, particularly inflammation from gum disease (periodontitis), is linked to several serious conditions. Periodontitis involves oral germs and swelling that can spread beyond the mouth, impacting overall health. Here are key conditions associated with poor oral health:
Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia
Chronic gum inflammation increases the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream through the gums, potentially reaching the brain and contributing to cognitive decline.
Heart Disease
Harvard University research (2019) indicates that individuals with periodontal disease are two to three times more likely to experience heart attacks or other cardiovascular issues. Maintaining oral health with regular visits to your Costa Mesa dentist can help reduce this risk.
Diabetes
Diabetes weakens the body’s ability to fight infections, making gums more susceptible to disease. Conversely, gum disease can make blood sugar control more challenging. Regular dental care, such as what you get from Michael J. Spitzer, DDS, can support better diabetes management, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Pregnancy Complications
Gum disease is associated with premature births and low birth weight. Expectant mothers in Costa Mesa, CA, should prioritize dental checkups to safeguard their health and their baby’s.
Cancer
Gum disease has been linked to cancers of the mouth, gastrointestinal tract, lung, breast, prostate, and uterus. Preventive care at a trusted Costa Mesa dental practice can help mitigate these risks.
Share any health changes, such as new diagnoses or conditions like diabetes, with your dentist. Dr. Michael J. Spitzer, with 40 years of experience in Costa Mesa, specializes in preventive and restorative care, including all stages of periodontal disease. Schedule a consultation today to explore how your oral health impacts your overall well-being.
How to Support Your Mouth-Body Connection
Good oral health promotes better overall health.
Follow these expert tips from Michael J. Spitzer, DDS to maintain a healthy mouth in Costa Mesa, California:
Brush Twice Daily: Use fluoride toothpaste to clean teeth thoroughly.
Floss Twice Daily: Remove plaque and food particles from areas your toothbrush can’t reach (up to 40% of tooth surfaces).
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support saliva production and oral health.
Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods: These can erode enamel and promote decay.
Replace Your Toothbrush: Swap it out every three to four months for optimal cleaning.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Schedule checkups for every six months at Michael J. Spitzer, DDS in Costa Mesa, or as recommended.
Avoid Tobacco: Tobacco use increases the risk of gum disease and oral cancer.
Address Issues Promptly: Contact your Costa Mesa dentist immediately if you notice oral health changes.
Why Choose Michael J. Spitzer, DDS in Costa Mesa, CA?
Dr. Spitzer and his team are dedicated to providing personalized dental care in Costa Mesa and the broader Coastal Orange County area. With extensive expertise in gum health and its systemic connections, we help patients achieve optimal health through comprehensive dental services. Whether you’re managing periodontal disease or seeking preventive care, our practice is here to support you.
Additional Resources
Ready to prioritize your oral and overall health? Contact Michael J. Spitzer, DDS in Costa Mesa, today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward a healthier you.