When you think of oral health, you probably think about your teeth and gums. But your oral health can affect other bodily functions, as well as your general health. For example, if you have compromised oral health, it can lead to other problems and complications in different areas of your body. In this blog post, we’ll explore how various aspects of oral health affect various parts of the body. If any of these ideas sound familiar to you, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to get on track with maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
Connection between Oral and General Health
If you want to keep your overall health in check, oral health should always be a priority, no matter your age. In fact, older patients may experience even greater consequences when they neglect their oral health. Most people know that there’s a connection between oral health and their teeth, gums, and mouth. But did you know that your oral health can also have an effect on the rest of your body?
That’s right: If you have compromised oral health, it can lead to other problems and complications in different areas of your body.
Oral Health and Respiratory System
Your teeth, gums, and mouth are home to thousands of bacteria. While many of these bacteria are harmless, some can make you sick. When bacteria from your mouth make their way into your bloodstream, it can cause an infection. That infection can spread to your lungs and is called pulmonary infection. How can you prevent this? Make sure to brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day. Visit the dentist twice a year for a checkup.
Oral Health and Eyes
Your oral health affects your vision as well. Studies have found that oral bacteria is also found in the eyes. If that bacteria gets into your eyes, it could lead to irritation or even permanent damage. If you have any kind of eye infection, you should see an eye doctor right away.
If the doctor suspects the infection might be coming from your mouth, he or she may prescribe antibiotics that can be taken orally. How can you prevent this? Brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day. Visit the dentist twice a year for a checkup.
Oral Health and the Digestive System
Your teeth, gums, and mouth can also have an effect on your digestive system, causing problems like stomachaches, diarrhea, and vomiting. If that doesn’t sound serious, consider this: If the digestive bacteria from your mouth gets into your bloodstream, it can lead to more serious complications, including blood poisoning. How can you prevent this? Brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day. Visit the dentist twice a year for a checkup.
Oral Health and the Skin
Your oral health can also affect your skin. When bacteria from your mouth spreads to your skin, it can cause boils or pimples. Bacterial infections that affect your skin are usually referred to as cellulitis or impetigo. How can you prevent this? Brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day. Visit the dentist twice a year for a checkup.
Bottom line
Your oral health is connected to your general health in many ways. If you have compromised oral health, it can lead to other problems and complications in different areas of your body. If you want to keep your overall health in check, oral health should always be a priority. Make sure to brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day. And if you see any signs of oral health issues, such as tooth decay, gum disease, or other problems, make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.
