How Is Your Oral Health and Your Overall Health Linked?

How Is Your Oral Health and Your Overall Health Linked?

Your mouth acts as a window into what’s going on in other parts of your body. Therefore, maintaining good oral health is very important for your overall health. When bacteria build up in your mouth, your gums become prone to infection. Normally good oral health care such as daily flossing, brushing, etc., and body’s immune system together keep bacteria in your mouth under control.

How is your oral health connected with your overall health?

If your oral health is compromised, you are at a high risk of developing gum diseases, which increases your chances of other serious health problems such as stroke, heart attack, preterm labor, and diabetes. In fact, as per the Academy of General Dentistry, more than 90% of all systemic diseases show oral signs and symptoms. For example, systemic conditions like diabetes or AIDS, often show up as mouth lesions or other oral problems.

Poor oral health and related diseases

Poor oral health might cause various diseases, including:

• Endocarditis

Endocarditis is a condition that causes infection in the endocardium (a smooth membrane which forms the surface of the heart valves and lines the inside of your heart chambers). It occurs when bacteria from another part of your body, such as your mouth, spread through your blood and latches to the endocardium.

• Cardiovascular disease

Although the relation between oral health and cardiovascular disease is not fully established, certain researches suggest that clogged arteries, heart disease, and stroke might be connected with the infections and inflammation due to oral bacteria.

• Pneumonia

Bacteria in your mouth can spread to your lungs, causing respiratory diseases such as pneumonia.

• Pregnancy and birth difficulties

Periodontitis has also been connected with low birth weight and premature birth.

Some conditions which may affect your oral health includes:

• Diabetes

Diabetes reduces the body’s resistance to infection and hence puts your gums at risk. Therefore, gum diseases are more frequent with diabetic patients.

• HIV/AIDS

People who have diagnosed as HIV positive are more prone to oral health problems such as painful mucosal lesions.

• Osteoporosis

This disease is linked to tooth loss and periodontal bone loss.

• Alzheimer’s disease

The oral health of people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease gets worsened as the disease progresses.

How to observe proper oral hygiene?

Here are some useful oral hygiene tips.

• Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush.
• Floss daily.
• Use a fluoride toothpaste.
• After brushing and flossing, use a mouthwash to remove any food particles left.
• Eat a balanced and healthy diet.
• Limit foods with added sugars.
• Replace your toothbrush every three months. Replace them sooner if bristles are worn.
• Avoid tobacco use.
• Schedule regular dental checkups.