Dentists often refer to your mouth as the window into the health of your entire body. This is because your oral health is connected to your overall health. Your mouth can show signs of major issues, including nutritional deficiencies, infection, and it can even show the signs of other types of disease. Below you will find more information on how oral health affects overall health, in addition to what you can do about it.
How Oral Health Affects Overall Health
Because your mouth can be where numerous diseases show the first physical signs of appearing, it is evident that your oral and overall health is connected. For example, issues such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and other types of disease can first impact your oral health. Signs of these diseases in your mouth can include mouth lesions, issues with your gums, and other oral issues. This is because your mouth is filled with bacteria that can impact your oral health if you do not take care of it. Bacteria can lead to tooth decay which can then lead to gum disease. Research has shown that gum disease in advanced stages is linked with:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Stroke
- And bacterial pneumonia
Conditions Linked to Oral Health
Various conditions can be linked to your oral health. Below you will find the most common links between your overall health and oral health.
- Cardiovascular Disease: Research shows a link between oral health and heart disease, clogged arteries, and stroke. While the connection is not fully understood yet, it has been linked based on inflammation and infections caused by harmful oral bacteria.
- Endocarditis: The inner lining of your heart valves is referred to as the endocardium. The infection impacts the endocardium and happens when harmful bacteria and other germs from your mouth spread through your bloodstream. When this happens, the bacteria can attach and negatively impact certain areas of your heart.
- Pneumonia: Similar to endocarditis, harmful bacteria from your mouth can transfer to your lungs. This can cause respiratory diseases such as pneumonia.
- Pregnancy Complications: Gum disease in pregnant mothers has been linked to lower birth weight and premature birth.
Oral Hygiene and Your Overall Health
Because your oral and overall health are linked, it’s vital to have a good oral hygiene routine and maintain your regular dental checkups. You can start by brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste with fluoride. It’s important to floss at least once per day, and if you only floss once it should be at night.
Maybe you can’t brush your teeth after you eat. Then you should use mouthwash with fluoride to help remove any leftover debris from your snacks or meals. One of the most important factors in ensuring oral health is on track is by attending your regular dental appointments. It is recommended that adults visit the dentist at least every six months. While there are the basic requirements for your oral health, be sure to talk with your dentist about what’s right for you. They will be able to provide you with tips that are specific to your unique dental needs.
Shady Grove Dental
If you need to schedule a dental checkup, contact the dentists at Shady Grove Point Dental. The team has decades of experience in general and cosmetic dentistry. They also provide emergency dentistry so you don’t have to worry if you find yourself needing dental services outside of their regular office hours. The team at Shady Grove Dental focuses on providing you with the best dentistry services and ensuring you leave their office with a healthy and beautiful smile. Contact their office today for an appointment!
