Adult
Since neglecting your oral health doesn’t show immediate symptoms and takes time to negatively impact the rest of your body, most people don’t understand just how important it is to take care of your teeth. There is a strong connection between dental health and general health. Your mouth’s health can impact your general health and well-being, and vice versa.
What Health Issues Are Caused by Bad Oral Health?
According to research, oral and overall health are closely related, and several health issues can be brought on by poor oral health.
Heart Disease
Heart disease and gum disease are linked, and one of the most important relationships between dental health and overall health. A gum infection brought on by bacteria in tooth plaque is periodontal disease or gum disease. The bacteria can get into the bloodstream and create inflammation, resulting in plaque formation in the arteries, raising the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Diabetes
Gum disease is more prevalent among people with diabetes and can make it more challenging to maintain blood sugar levels. This could lead to a vicious cycle where diabetes worsens gum disease and vice versa.
Problems During Pregnancy
Gum disease during pregnancy increases the fetus’s risk of early birth or low birth weight. The inflammation brought on by the bacteria in the mouth, which can cause premature labor, is thought to be the cause.
How to Keep Your Teeth & Mouth Healthy
To keep your teeth in healthy condition, it’s important to remember these few simple tips and guidelines.
Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day
Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste for optimum oral health. Every time you brush, it is advised that you spend at least two minutes making sure to cover all your entire mouth.
Floss Every Day
The maintenance of good dental health also includes flossing. Where your toothbrush cannot reach, between your teeth and below the gum line, flossing eliminates food particles and plaque. It is advised to floss at least once a day to prevent gum disease.
Schedule Yearly Dental Checkups
Regular dental checkups can help catch any problems before worsening, and oral health issues can be detected by your dentist and treated. Visiting the dentist at least twice a year is advised for a checkup and cleaning. The dentist will examine your mouth, teeth, and gums during the checkup to look for indications of gum disease, cavities, and other oral health problems.
Quit Smoking & Using Tobacco
Gum disease, tooth loss, and oral cancer are just a few of the conditions that smoking and tobacco usage can lead to in terms of oral health. If you use tobacco products, discuss quitting with your dentist or doctor. Nicotine replacement therapy, counseling, and support groups are just a few tools to help you stop smoking.
Schedule a Dental Exam
Poor dental health can cause various health issues, and there is no denying the connection between oral health and overall health. Our advice will help you maintain good oral health and enhance your general well-being. Make an appointment with our Plantation dentist if you have any concerns about your dental health.
April 25, 2023