Ask any dentist and they will tell you that most people overlook oral health because they aren’t aware of the impact it has. They aren’t aware of how the oral cavity can impact their overall body. They go on without properly taking care of their teeth and gums. Which can result in not just problems within the mouth but other parts of the body also.
However, if they took the time out to understand how the mouth connects to the rest of the body and the impact it has, they wouldn’t be so negligent.
How Does Oral Health Connect with Your Overall Health?
Most people aren’t aware but the mouth is filled with bacteria, millions in fact. While most the bacteria present are harmless, they can build up and start to become a problem without proper oral health care. Brushing and flossing help your body fight and keep the number of bacteria under control. Without a good oral regimen, cavities, infection, tooth decay, and gum diseases can easily occur.
However, it doesn’t just stop there. Oral health has been linked to the following conditions in other parts of the body:
- Cardiovascular disease: Heart disease, stroke, and clogged arteries have been linked to bad oral health. The bacteria, inflammation, and infections in the mouth can be linked to cardiovascular disease. A study in 2010 shows that individuals with periodontal disease are at higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
- Endocarditis: This is an infection that occurs in the endocardium, inner lining, of the heart. The problem arises when bacteria from other parts of the body such as the mouth get into the bloodstream and spread. They then attach to damaged areas within the heart such as the endocardium.
- Pregnancy and birth: There have been studies that have linked higher chances of low birth weight and premature birth due to periodontitis.
The following conditions have an impact on oral health:
- HIV/AIDS: Individuals with HIV/AIDS may suffer from mucosal lesions which can be painful. Some studies have even linked bad oral hygiene as one of the identifiers or early symptoms of HIV/AIDS.
- Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis affects the bones of the body, making them weak and brittle. It has been linked to tooth loss and periodontal bone loss.
These links show how the mouth and your oral health can impact your body and vice versa. So maintaining your oral health is important for not just your mouth but your overall body.
How You Can Improve Your Oral Health?
You just need to take a few minutes out of your day to maintain a healthy mouth. It starts with:
- With a fluoride toothpaste, brush your mouth twice a day.
- Rinse your mouth and floss after meals to ensure you get leftover food particles out.
- Replace your toothbrush as soon as the bristles become frayed, usually every couple of months.
- Maintain a balanced diet and try to limit junk food.
- Avoid the use of tobacco.
Another aspect of oral health that is overlooked by many is dental checkups. Your mouth is just as much a part of your body as your heart or stomach. While people go for regular checkups for the rest of the body, the mouth is usually ignored.
To make sure your mouth remains healthy and stays clear of infectious bacteria you need a regular checkup. This starts with picking an experienced, reliable dentistry like Ocala dentists. Going with an experienced dentist that you can trust will give you an ease of mind, in terms of your oral health and also have you looking forward to visits rather than dreading them.
Depending on the state of your health, the initial checkups may be simple or if there is plaque or any other problem, cleaning and other treatments may be recommended. As the checkups continue, the dentist will ensure the slightest bit of problem is treated immediately so your oral and overall body health is not affected.
So don’t wait until you spot a cavity or develop pain in your teeth or gum. Start visiting your dentist and do so twice a year. Pairing the visits with proper oral health regimen will help you maintain a healthy lifestyle.