When was the last time you have had your teeth checked? If it has been years ago, when you last visited your dentist for a checkup, then it is high time that you should. You may have wondered if oral health is important to your general well-being. Let’s find out just how is our oral health problems are connected to our overall health.
The Mind and Mouth Connection
The condition of our oral health has a huge impact on our overall health. Just like different parts of the body, the mouth is a breeding ground for bacteria (good or bad) because of the moist and warm environment that’s just perfect for the proliferation of bacteria.
Under normal circumstances and practice of good oral health care, the body is able to control the bacterial population in the mouth. Flossing and brushing the teeth can keep the bacterial population in check but if good oral health is not practiced, the population of bad bacteria can reach levels that can lead to oral infections.
Conditions Linked to Oral Health
Aside from oral diseases, having oral health problems has been linked to other diseases. For instance, periodontal or gum diseases are associated with different types of systemic conditions. Although not fully understood yet, some chronic diseases may have stemmed from having bad oral hygiene. Below are several diseases that may be linked to a poor oral health.
• Cardiovascular diseases: Studies have shown that gum diseases increase the risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. In fact, people with gum problems have a higher risk of stroke than those who practice good oral hygiene. Other studies also found that the bacteria causing gum disease has also been found in arteries that have been affected by atherosclerosis. Moreover, people who suffer from gum diseases have higher C-reactive proteins that signal inflammation. Having higher C-reactive proteins have also been found in people suffering from cardiovascular diseases.
• Endocarditis: Endocarditis is an infection that affects the endocardium or the inner lining of the heart. This happens when bacteria from other parts of the body particularly the mouth–has spread through the bloodstream and have found their way into the lining of the heart.
• Poor pregnancy and difficult birthing: Studies have shown that people who have gum diseases have higher risks of giving premature birth.
• Diabetes: Diabetes is the inability of the body to use glucose because of a lack or absence of insulin. Thus, high blood sugar occurs. When a person is suffering from diabetes, the body’s resistance towards infection is affected. People with diabetes often suffer from severe gum disease because of their poor immune system.
• Respiratory infections: The bacteria that causes gum diseases can be transported to your lungs and can cause respiratory infections like pneumonia. However, this usually takes a long time to develop and it is the result of breathing in the bacteria from infected gums and teeth over time.
• Dementia: Studies have shown that bacteria from gingivitis is linked to Alzheimer’s disease. The bacteria can easily enter the brain through the nerve channels found in the mouth.
Risk Factors for Oral Health Problems
A poor oral health is considered as the most widespread disease in the world. Although considered not life-threatening, poor oral health can cause a lot of problems to your health. It is important to know about the common risk factors for oral health. That way, you can easily avoid the problem by preventing the risk factors from the start.
• Diet: Diet plays a major role in oral health. Remember that the bacteria living within your mouth feeds on the food that you eat. If you eat foods rich in simple sugar, you are at risk of developing dental caries (cavities) and periodontal diseases. Eating these foods also activate or aggravate other diseases like high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes and cancer.
• Smoking: Smoking increases the risk factor for oral diseases like gum problems and cancer. It also increases the risk for respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
• Alcohol consumption: Alcohol contains sugar and sugar serves as food for the bacteria inside the mouth. Avoid consuming too much alcohol to prevent your risk for oral diseases.
• Poor hygiene: This is perhaps the biggest risk factor for poor oral and general health. With poor oral health, the number of bacteria in the mouth will increase and this will also increase the inflammatory conditions in the body. There are many reasons why people practice poor oral hygiene and these include the lack of education, injuries, and socio-economic status.
A good oral health is very crucial for the general health and well-being of the body. Having a healthy mouth does not only ensure that proper nutrition is absorbed by the body, but it also improves social interaction and self-confidence. Since it provides a window to how our health is faring, it is crucial to protect our oral health by practicing good oral hygiene.
Combating Sugar Damage with Dr. David Kao
Dr. Kao is a dental specialist in Periodontics and Dental Implants. He is committed to helping each and every one of his patients achieve a brighter smile, and a healthier mouth. If you have questions about your oral care, or would like to set up an appointment, contact us today to set up an appointment.
