Your oral health gives an idea of your overall health as there is an intimate connection between the two. This is because the mouth is full of harmless bacteria that are kept under control with daily brushing and flossing. However sometimes, harmful bacteria can go out of control and lead to oral infections like tooth decay and gum disease that can lead to other diseases and conditions.
Oral health related diseases
People with a weak immune system or a damaged heart valve can suffer from infections like endocarditis (infection of the heart’s inner lining) when gum diseases and its dental procedures allow bacteria to enter your bloodstream.
Heart disease, stroke and clogged arteries may have links with oral health, probably because of chronic inflammation from a severe gum disease, periodontitis. Gum disease can also lead to premature birth and low birth weight while people with HIV/AIDS suffer from many oral problems like painful mucosal lesions.
Diabetes reduces body resistance, which can put gums at risk as diabetics may develop frequent and severe infections of the gums and bone that holds teeth in place. In fact, they may lose more teeth than those with good blood sugar control.
In fact, according to the latest issued of the British Dental Journal, inflammation from swollen gums can increase diabetes severity, worsen cardiovascular disease and increase mortality from oral cancer and per-malignancies. Moreover, it points out that poorly controlled diabetes speeds up the progression of gum disease that can lead to loss of teeth.
Osteoporosis is also related to periodontal bone and tooth loss. Early tooth loss, before the age of 35 is a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. It is because of all these diseases that are related to oral health that you have to inform your dentist of any medications you take, and if you have recently suffered from an illness or chronic condition.
Prevention
For optimum oral health, it is important to practice good oral hygiene every day. Make it a point to brush at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months, once bristles start fraying.
Flossing every day, eating a healthy diet, limiting between meal snacks and regular dental checkups all contribute to good oral health. Don’t skimp on flossing as it helps in reaching the tight spaces between your teeth and under your gum line, which your toothbrush cannot reach.
Always look out for signs and symptoms of oral disease, and contact your doctor as soon as you spot any. Optimum care of your oral health is a great investment in your overall health.
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