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Oral health & hygiene : Window to complete health
What's the connection between oral health and overall health?
Our mouth is the entry point to our internal system, digestive and respiratory tracts. So oral health is the mirror of general health.
Body’s immune system and good oral health take care of the oral bacteria. Brushing twice a day and flossing, help in maintaining oral hygiene. When this is not adhered to, oral bacteria reach levels that might lead to oral infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease.
Certain medicines such as antihistamines, some analgesics, diuretics and antidepressants are reported to have effect on salivary flow rate. Saliva washes away food and neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth, helping to protect you from microbes that multiply and lead to disease.
Studies suggest that oral bacteria and the inflammation associated with a severe form of gum disease (periodontitis) might play a role in some diseases. And certain diseases, such as diabetes and HIV/AIDS, can lower the body’s resistance to infection, making oral health problems more severe.
Health conditions linked to oral health :
- Infection of the inner lining of heart chambers or valves (endocardium) typically occurs when bacteria from another part of body, such as mouth, spread through bloodstream and attach areas in the heart.
- Cardiovascular disease.Research suggests that heart disease, blocked arteries and stroke might be linked to the inflammation and infections that oral bacteria can cause.
- Pregnancy and birth complications.Gum inflammation has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.
- By reducing the body’s resistance to infection, diabetes puts gums at risk. Gum disease appears to be more frequent and severe among people who have diabetes, also healing post surgical procedures is slower.
- HIV/AIDS.Oral problems, such as painful mucosal lesions, are common in people who have HIV/AIDS.
- Is linked with periodontal bone loss and tooth loss. Certain drugs used to treat osteoporosis carry a small risk of damage to the bones of the jaw.
- Alzheimer’s disease.Worsening oral health is seen as Alzheimer’s disease progresses.
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). Thus maintaining good oral health helps to prevent and maintain many systemic conditions.
How can oral health be maintained?
To protect your oral health, practice good oral hygiene daily
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time.
- Use a soft-bristled tooth brush and fluoride containing toothpaste.
- Floss daily.
- Use mouthwash to remove food particles left after brushing and flossing.
- Eat a healthy diet and limit sugary food and drinks.
- Replace your toothbrush every three months, or sooner if bristles are splayed or worn.
- Schedule regular dental check-up and cleanings, atleast once every 6 months.
- Avoid tobacco use and alcohol.
Tell the dentist about the medications you take and about changes in your overall health, especially if you’ve been recently sick or have a chronic condition, such as diabetes. Contact us as soon as any oral health problem arises. Taking care of your oral health is an investment in your overall health.
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