Your oral health is an important part of your general health. It’s not just about the look of your teeth or how many cavities you have. Your oral health is an indication of how healthy you are in general. That’s because your mouth, tongue, and gums are a gateway to your body and its various organs. If something goes wrong in your mouth, there may be something wrong with other parts of your body as well. Here’s why maintaining good oral hygiene is so important for your general health:
Your Mouth is a Gateway to Your Body
Your mouth is the gateway to your general health because it is a portal for bacteria and viruses. Bacteria and viruses that live in your mouth can travel to other parts of your body. Many infections start in the mouth and travel to other organs. The link between dental hygiene and general health is also the reason why people with poor dental hygiene are often contagious.
Dental Care is Important for General Health
Good dental care reduces the risk of other diseases, and overall poor dental hygiene can cause other health issues. Some of the key problems that can occur if you do not take care of your teeth and gums are tooth decay and gum disease. Both of these problems can lead to tooth loss and other complications. Gum disease can also cause infections in your body.
A growing body of evidence has linked oral health, particularly periodontal (gum) disease, to several chronic diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. In pregnant women, poor oral health has also been associated with premature births and low birth weight.
Good Dental Care reduces risk of Diseases
Bad dental care can contribute to other diseases and conditions as well as lead to tooth loss. Poor dental health can increase your risk of stroke, heart disease and diabetes. It can also cause difficulties with pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Poor oral health can also lead to other health issues. Some of the most important ones include heart disease and stroke, diabetes, difficulty with pregnancy, and a weakened immune system. How can I protect my oral health?
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time.
- Use a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily.
- Use mouthwash to remove food particles left after brushing and flossing.
- Eat a healthy diet and limit sugary food and drinks.
- Replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if bristles are splayed or worn.
- Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings with your dentist.
- Avoid tobacco and smoking.
What conditions can be linked to oral health?
Endocarditis. Infection of the inner lining of your heart chambers or valves typically occurs when bacteria or other germs from another part of your body, such as your mouth, spread through your bloodstream and attach to certain areas in your heart.
Cardiovascular disease. Some research suggests that heart disease, clogged arteries and stroke might be linked to the inflammation and infections that oral bacteria can cause.
Pregnancy and birth complications. Periodontitis has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.
Pneumonia. Certain bacteria in your mouth can be pulled into your lungs, causing pneumonia and other respiratory diseases.
Diabetes. By reducing the body’s resistance to infection, diabetes puts your gums at risk. Research shows that people who have gum disease have a harder time controlling their blood sugar levels. Regular periodontal care can improve diabetes control.
HIV/AIDS. Oral problems, such as painful mucosal lesions, are common in people who have HIV/AIDS.
Osteoporosis. This bone-weakening disease is linked with periodontal bone loss and tooth loss. Certain drugs used to treat osteoporosis carry a small risk of damage to the bones of the jaw.
Alzheimer’s disease. Worsening oral health is seen as Alzheimer’s disease progresses.
Conclusion
Your oral health is a window to your general health. That’s because bacteria and viruses that live in your mouth can travel to other parts of your body. That’s why maintaining good dental hygiene is so important for your general health. It can reduce the risk of other diseases and can also help pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers.
