Elmhurst Dentist Reviews Illnesses that Can Harm Your Oral Health

Written by Dr. Scharfenberg on Sep 10, 2013

The strength of your immune system is very important when it comes to maintaining a strong smile. Because your teeth and gums are bombarded with oral bacteria all the time, you need a healthy immune system to fight oral infections. Unfortunately, some whole body illnesses can negatively affect your smile. Here is some more information from our Elmhurst dentist

As we have already mentioned, you need a healthy immune system in order to keep oral infections at bay. Any chronic medical conditions that compromise your immune system will take a toll on your oral health. Patients with chronic conditions should talk to their dentists about any additional oral health steps they should take to protect their smiles. You may need to have professional dental cleanings more frequently than other patients.

Diabetic patients should also keep certain things in mind when formulating oral health treatment plans. If you have diabetes, you are at risk of suffering from gum disease as well. Fluctuating blood glucose levels, as well as circulatory problems, make it difficult for diabetic patients’ immune systems to combat oral bacteria. As a diabetic patient your dentist may have you rinse with a special mouth rinse, or come in frequently for professional cleanings. Your dentist may also recommend specific dental tools that will clean your gum tissue thoroughly.

So far we have been discussing chronic illnesses, but short-term illnesses can also affect your mouth. Respiratory infections, for example, often lead to bad breath. Post-nasal drip (an accumulation of phlegm and mucus in your throat) will make your mouth feel and smell stale. Take the time to gargle with mouthwash and warm salt water to refresh your mouth when you are sick.

Our Elmhurst dentist office is here to support you no matter what the state of your overall and oral health. Give us a call to schedule your consultation with our dental team!