#OralHealthforGeneralHealth
You may be asking yourself, how does my general health come to play when it comes to oral health? Does it even matter, must I look after my teeth properly to ensure my overall health is also functioning properly? Hate to break it to you, but yes, your oral health directly connects to your body, your mouth is the window to your body. Beginning to make sense now? Okay then lets discuss the details why you really need to take proper care of your teeth.
Did you know that your oral health offers clues about your overall health — or that problems in your mouth can affect the rest of your body?
Your mouth is the entry point to your digestive and respiratory tracts, and some of these bacteria can cause disease.
Normally the body’s natural defenses and good oral health care, such as daily brushing and flossing, keep bacteria under control. However, without proper oral hygiene, bacteria can reach levels that might lead to oral infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease.
According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) Oral health refers to the health of the teeth, gums, and the entire oral-facial system that allows us to smile, speak, and chew. Some of the most common diseases that impact our oral health include cavities (tooth decay), gum (periodontal) disease, and oral cancer.
Other conditions that might be linked to oral health include eating disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, certain cancers and an immune system disorder that causes dry mouth (Sjogren’s syndrome).
Tell your dentist about the medications you take and about changes in your overall health, especially if you’ve recently been ill or you have a chronic condition, such as diabetes. At Emerald Dental Clinic, we are keen to create an environment where you can freely speak about any concerns you may have regarding your dental health, patient education being our mantra, we shall address your woes easily and provide proper solutions FOR YOU.
There are many steps you can take to keep your teeth healthy. For example, dental and oral disease can be greatly reduced by:
- Brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day
- Flossing your teeth at least once a day
- Decreasing your intake of sugar
- Eating a diet high in fruits and vegetables
- Avoiding tobacco products
- Drinking fluoridated water
- Seeking professional dental care
Also, contact your dentist as soon as an oral health problem arises. Taking care of your oral health is an investment in your overall health. Even if you’ve been taking good care of your teeth, you’ll still need to have a professional cleaning twice a year during a routine visit with your dentist. Your dentist will recommend other treatments if you show signs of gum disease, infections, or other problems.
Please let’s all prioritize our dental health.
Sources
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/dental/art-20047475
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health#oral-health-and-women
