Many people know that high blood pressure can affect their heart and kidneys, but did you know it can also impact your oral health? It's true! High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, can put you at risk for various oral health problems if left untreated.
How High Blood Pressure Affects Your Oral Health
High blood pressure can affect your oral health in several ways:
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Gum Disease: High blood pressure can make it harder for your body to fight off infection, including gum disease. Gum disease is a serious infection that can damage the gums and bone supporting your teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss.
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Dry Mouth: Some medications used to treat high blood pressure can cause dry mouth. Saliva is essential for keeping your mouth healthy, as it washes away food particles and bacteria. A lack of saliva can increase your risk of cavities and gum disease.
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Slow Healing: High blood pressure can slow down the healing process after dental procedures, such as extractions or restorative dentistry. This is because high blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in your mouth, making it more difficult for them to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the healing tissues.
Protecting Your Oral Health
If you have high blood pressure, it's important to take steps to protect your oral health. Here are a few tips:
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See your dentist regularly: Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can monitor your oral health and provide early treatment for any problems.
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Practice good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. This will help remove plaque and bacteria that can cause cavities and gum disease.
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Control your blood pressure: Following your doctor's instructions for managing your blood pressure is crucial for protecting your overall health, including your oral health.
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Tell your dentist about your medications: Some medications used to treat high blood pressure can affect your oral health. Be sure to tell your dentist about all the medications you are taking.
Conclusion
High blood pressure can impact your oral health in several ways, increasing your risk for problems like gum disease, dry mouth, and slow healing. By taking steps to control your blood pressure and practice good oral hygiene, you can help protect your oral health and keep your smile healthy.
Talk to one of our caring patient coordinators today to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Frank Sioda 18676 Willamette Dr. Suite 202 West Linn, OR 97068-1718
Dental Blog | Dentist West Linn | ZenTech Dentistry Dr. Frank Sioda of ZenTech Dentistry has created this informative blog to help educate the community about a variety of dental topics. Learn more here. ZenTech Dentistry - Frank K. Sioda, DMD, PC, 18676 Willamette Dr., Suite 202, West Linn, OR 97068-1718 / (503) 765-9699 / zentechdentistry.com / 10/27/2024 / Associated Words: dentist West Linn /