Rania Amer
Saturday, March 25, 2023 12:00 PM
Prepare Oral health An integral part of our health in general, and its importance cannot be overstated, the mouth is the entrance to the body, and any disease or infection that arises in the oral cavity can have serious consequences for the rest of the body.
Research has shown, according to healthline, that there is a strong relationship between oral health and overall health. Therefore, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene in daily life and to perform regular dental check-ups.
Poor oral health can affect your overall health: Here’s how the relationship between oral health and general health is not only theoretical but supported by scientific evidence. Poor oral health has been linked to a host of health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, respiratory problems, and pregnancy complications.
Despite common misconceptions, oral health is no different than our physical health, with the mouth serving as a gateway for harmful bacteria. We dentists often encounter individuals who underestimate the role that oral health plays in their overall health.
Possible consequences of poor oral health
Here are some possible consequences of poor oral health:
Endocarditis is a rare but life-threatening myocarditis that can result from poor oral hygiene. For example, when bacteria in dental plaque multiply, this can lead to gingivitis (a type of gum disease that leads to inflammation of the gums).
If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to increased openings. When this happens, the gums become inflamed, so gingivitis and bleeding during dental procedures can allow bacteria to enter the body, which can lead to the growth of bacterial pockets in the heart and endocarditis. Cardiovascular diseases including atherosclerosis (blockage of the arteries) and stroke may arise due to inflammation caused by oral bacteria.
Pregnancy among women increases the risk of oral health problems. If left unchecked, these problems can lead to premature labour.
Poor oral health can also lead to pneumonia. According to some studies, people who have never had a dental exam have an 86% higher chance of developing pneumonia. This is because the bacteria that cause pneumonia may be inhaled.
How do you keep your gums healthy?
To prevent these problems from occurring, it is recommended that you take the following actions:
It is recommended to floss daily and brush at least twice a day for two minutes each. After this process, one should always use a mouthwash to remove any excess food particles that may be left in the mouth.
Toothbrush plays a very important role in oral health, it should be replaced every three to four months or even earlier if the bristles are scattered or frayed, it is also recommended to use a soft bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste to avoid damaging the gums.
Oral health is also affected by our diet. A healthy diet is recommended as it positively affects oral health and our body. Also, while sugary foods and drinks are delicious, their consumption should be limited to maintain good oral health
Tobacco can have serious negative effects on our bodies and on our oral hygiene. Tobacco use, in any form, is a major cause of oral cancer, which can affect the mouth, lips, tongue and throat.
Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings with your dentist. Doing so is the best way to ensure good oral health as your dentist will recommend the correct procedure required to maintain your oral health.
Last but not least, contact your dentist as soon as you experience any oral health issues such as toothache, gum disease, dry mouth, tooth decay, etc., ignoring this can make the condition worse. Hence, any problem related to the teeth or gums should be brought to the attention of your doctor immediately for timely action.