Your smile can create many opportunities — whether you’re trying to make your best impression at a job interview or start new relationships. Your dental hygiene can determine a lot about the health of your smile.
But did you know it can also affect your eyes?
Recent studies have shown a significant link between the health of your teeth and your eyes.
Bacteria and inflammation can ultimately lead to infections that affect not only the integrity of your teeth but your vision as well.
At Access Health Dental we highly encourage patients to take proper care of their dental hygiene. This not only ensures you have a healthy and inviting smile, but that you’re doing your part to prevent certain health issues, especially those affecting your eyes.
Learn more about the relationship between your teeth and eyes, and how taking care of your smile can help your eyes and vision in the long run.
How is Your Oral Health Related to Your Eye Health?
Your oral health has a variety of effects on your eyes. For example, the infections and inflammation associated with periodontal disease can not only damage your jaw and gums but can also affect the optical nerves in your eyes.
Research has also found that there is a link between eye conditions like glaucoma and the health of your teeth. These diseases are often triggered by oral issues like decay, and gum diseases. Most people start experiencing issues with their vision once their teeth begin to fall out.
In rare cases, you can even experience eye problems after dental work, especially if you’ve received a mercury filling in the past. Toxic elements from these fillings can potentially increase your risk of experiencing eye conditions like cataracts, retinitis pigmentosa, and iritis.
Even a minor tooth infection can lead to swelling and discomfort if it spreads to your eyes. Your teeth are a window to your overall health, and it’s important to properly care for them so you can maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Caring for Your Oral Health
Caring for your dental hygiene is essential when taking care of your body. With the effects your teeth can have on your overall health, it’s important to make sure they’re in good shape. There are several steps you can take to ensure you’re taking care of your oral health:
- Brush your teeth twice a day for 2 minutes with fluoride toothpaste.
- Eat balanced, nutritious meals — especially those that are high in calcium, or can help keep your teeth clean.
- Avoid overindulging in foods and drinks that are bad for your teeth — like candy, wine, citrus, and sports drinks.
- Schedule dental checkups and a cleaning every 6 months.
- If you notice an issue with your teeth, don’t hesitate to see your dentist immediately. Dental issues can worsen quickly without proper care.
How to Care for Your Eye Health
Caring for your eyes is like caring for any other major part of your body. You have to eat right and maintain healthy habits to prevent health issues down the line. If you’re looking to prolong your vision and the health of your eyes, you can take the following steps:
- Eat fruits and vegetables that support eye health like leafy greens, salmon, eggs, and broccoli.
- Get regular eye exams.
- Increase your physical activity (30 minutes a day/ 5 times a week).
- Avoid tobacco and excess alcohol.
- Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun.
Indicators of Oral Problems
Wondering if you’ve run into a problem with your oral health? If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, be sure to seek help from your dentist:
- Problems chewing, swallowing, or speaking
- Discoloration, like dark or white spots inside your mouth
- Spontaneous pain in your mouth, especially when you’re trying to eat or brush your teeth
- Sores in your mouth
- Bleeding gums
- Tooth sensitivity
- Bad breath
- Jaw pain or clicking/popping of your jaw
Indicators of Related Eye Issues
Likewise, if you’ve run into any issues with your eyes or vision, it’s important to make an appointment with your optometrist immediately. Be on the lookout for symptoms like:
- Discolored or misshapen pupils
- Persistent eye itching
- Pain, redness, or tenderness around your eye
- Green or yellow-colored discharge
- Swollen or droopy eyelids
Get the Dental Care You Need with Access Health Dental
If you’re looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle and care for your body, it’s important to stay on top of your dental hygiene. Your oral health is a gateway to your overall health, and this doesn’t stop at your eyes.
That’s why our team is dedicated to providing you with the best dental care that suits your needs. Our staff is compassionate and eager to help you own your smile and your health — and it can all begin with booking an appointment.