The Importance of Good Oral Health if you Have a Blood Disorder
Posted on 7/20/2018 by Winning Smile Dental Group
If you suffer from a blood disorder such as anemia, sickle cell disease, spherocytosis, cyclical neutropenia, or any other type of blood disorder, your doctor has likely encouraged you to take care of your oral health. That's because good oral health is important in controlling blood disorder problems.
How They're Connected
When your oral health is less than stellar, it provides an opening into the body for bacteria and viruses. For most people, while this is a concern, it's not a severe problem right away. That's because their immune system is strong enough to hold these bacteria or viruses in check.
For those who are dealing with disorders such as neutropenia, though, that's not the case. Their white blood cell count is fairly low, so their immune system isn't that strong. They can't fight off these infections as easily.
This means that you have to be careful not to give bacteria or viruses easy access to your bloodstream. Cavities, gum disease, and impacted teeth can all weaken your defenses and create openings for infection.
By regularly seeing us and letting us know that you're fighting a blood disorder, we'll be better able to treat you and make sure you're as healthy as can be.
Other Concerns A blood disorder can also bring up additional concerns for dental procedures. For example, those who have low white blood cell counts are likely to need antibiotics before and after a procedure to make sure they don't get an infection.
Those who have abnormally high or low red blood cell counts also require additional monitoring because they may bleed more easily or not clot as well.
We see a number of patients who are living with blood disorders and do everything we can to keep them healthy. If you have a blood disorder and have any questions about your oral health or want to book an appointment, call us today.