People often overlook oral health while working on their overall health. Most of us believe that brushing our teeth twice a day is enough, but that’s not it. Your oral health affects your whole-body health.
Neglecting your oral health can lead to minor to severe health issues. Poor oral hygiene can cause gum disease, which further leads to heart disease, stroke, respiratory issues, and even diabetes. In this article, we will discuss why oral health is a key to overall health.
What is Oral Health?
Oral health involves maintaining healthy teeth, gums, and tongue. It includes a range of practices that help prevent diseases of the mouth and teeth.
Brushing teeth, flossing, rinsing, and regular dental check-ups are essential to maintain sound oral hygiene. Good oral health requires the prevention and elimination of bad breath, tooth decays, and gum diseases that could lead to further complications.
Oral health also comprises having a healthy and balanced diet, avoiding tobacco products, and limiting alcohol consumption.
Connection Between Oral Health and Overall Health
Oral health issues affect your overall health because the mouth is the entry point to your digestive and respiratory systems. The food we eat, the water we drink, and the air we breathe all pass through our mouth.
Poor oral hygiene can cause inflammation and infection, leading to severe health issues. Poor oral health can cause the following:.
1. Cardiovascular Disease
Cardiovascular disease is a common oral health-related problem that arises due to inflammation of the gums. The bacteria that cause gum disease can enter the bloodstream and spread through your body.
This bacteria can cause plaque build-up in the arteries, leading to blood clots and heart attacks.
2. Diabetes
Diabetes and gum disease have a cyclical relationship. High blood sugar levels in diabetes management can lead to gum disease, and gum disease can increase blood sugar levels.
Gum disease can make it difficult for diabetes patients to control their blood sugar levels.
3. Respiratory Issues
Breathing in bacteria from infected gums and teeth can cause respiratory infections such as pneumonia. People with underlying respiratory issues such as asthma are at greater risk of health complications due to gum infections.
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4. Dementia
Poor oral health increases the risk of dementia and other cognitive disorders. The inflammation caused by gum diseases can spread to the brain, causing damage to memory and thinking abilities.
5. Pregnancy Complications
Pregnant women with poor oral hygiene are at risk of premature birth, low birth weight, and pre-eclampsia. Gum diseases can enter the bloodstream and affect the baby’s health and development, leading to several health complications in the baby.
How to Maintain Oral Health
Maintaining good oral hygiene requires small lifestyle changes that can lead to significant health benefits. Here are some tips you can follow to maintain excellent oral health:.
1. Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day
Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice per day. Brushing your teeth removes plaque buildup that leads to tooth decay and gum diseases. Brush your teeth for at least two minutes and use gentle circular movements.
Don’t brush your teeth too hard as it can damage the enamel on your teeth.
2. Floss Regularly
Flossing removes food particles trapped between your teeth. Floss your teeth once a day, preferably before bed, to avoid plaque buildup. Use gentle back-and-forth motions and slide the floss up and down the sides of each tooth.
3. Use Mouthwash
Mouthwash can reduce dental plaque and prevent gum diseases. Rinse your mouth with mouthwash twice a day after brushing your teeth.
4. Maintain a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is essential for good oral health. Avoid sugary and acidic foods and beverages, which can cause tooth decay and erosion. Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
5. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Regular dental check-ups can help you maintain good oral hygiene. Visit your dentist twice a year for regular cleanings and check-ups. Your dentist can identify and treat any oral health issues before they become severe.
Conclusion
Oral health is often overlooked but is essential for overall health. Poor oral hygiene can cause serious health complications, and neglecting it can lead to severe issues.
Maintaining good oral hygiene requires simple lifestyle changes such as brushing twice a day, flossing, using mouthwash, eating a healthy diet, and regularly visiting your dentist. By maintaining good oral hygiene, you can prevent several health complications and lead a healthy life.
