The quality of your oral health can reveal your overall health condition. These two factors are intimately connected. Consequently, learning more about this connection is crucial to protecting and improving your oral and overall health. And as your trusted dental hygienists, we at Brentwood Village Dental Clinic are here to help clarify any confusion regarding your oral health. Keep reading to learn more.
The Connection Between Your Oral and Overall Health
Your mouth is teeming with bacteria, most of which are harmless. However, some bacteria can be dangerous and even lead to disease and illness. And with your mouth being the digestive and respiratory tract entry point, it makes sense to optimize your oral health. Without oral hygiene, bacteria can cause gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral infections.
Moreover, some medications can hinder saliva flow, compromising your body’s ability to wash away food, nullify acids, and safeguard you from multiplying microbes that cause disease.
Conditions That Are Linked to Oral Health
Poor oral health may contribute to numerous conditions and diseases, such as:
- Endocarditis. This condition affects your heart chamber’s inner lining. It usually happens if bacteria from another body part (like your mouth) enters your bloodstream, attaching to specific regions in your heart.
- Cardiovascular disease. Although more research is needed, it’s been suggested that stroke, clogged arteries, and heart disease may be connected to the infections and inflammation produced by oral bacteria.
- Pregnancy and birth complications. Certain oral conditions have been linked to low birth rates and premature birth.
- Pneumonia. Some oral bacteria can seep into your lungs, producing pneumonia and other respiratory complications.
There are some diseases and conditions may also impact your oral health; these may include:
- Diabetes: Diabetes can compromise your gums by lowering your body’s resistance to infection. Gum disease is more severe and frequent in individuals with diabetes.
- HIV/AIDS. Generally, oral health complications are more common in those with HIV/AIDS.
- Osteoporosis. This insidious disease of the bones is connected with periodontal tooth and bone loss. In addition, some drugs used to treat it bring a minor risk of bone damage to the jaw bones.
- Alzheimer’s disease. Declining oral health hastens as Alzheimer’s progresses in a person.
Inform your dental hygienist of any medications you take and if any changes occur in your overall health.
How Do I Protect My Dental Health?
Practice healthy oral habits daily to protect your dental health.
- Brush your teeth: Ensure you brush your teeth twice daily; use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily: Preferably at night, before bed, to clean all the food remnants that have accumulated in your mouth throughout the day.
- Mouthwash: Use mouthwash to clean out the food particles you may have missed from brushing and flossing.
- Get a checkup: Book regular dental cleanings and checkups. A good rule of thumb is to schedule a dental checkup once every 6 months.
- Cut the bad oral habits: Avoid sugary foods and drinks such as candy, chocolate, energy drinks, sodas, etc. Also, cutting out (or limiting) other poor oral health habits such as alcohol, tobacco, and cigarettes is also a prudent decision.
Next Step: Schedule an Appointment With a Dental Hygienist Today
It can be stressful visiting the dentist. For this reason, we at Brentwood Village Dental Clinic maintain a relaxing atmosphere where you can feel safe and at ease. Our team of expert dentists will welcome you with a smile as you walk through our doors. And with decades of experience, our friendly demeanour is coupled with genuine expertise to help you with your oral health needs. So if you’re ready, contact us today to learn more.
Disclaimer:
Blog posts from Brentwood Village Dental are for general information only. The content should not be considered medical advice. If you need professional medical advice or assistance, please contact your local doctor or clinic.
