Oral Health Can Affect The Body In Many Ways

how oral health affects the body

Research shows that oral health has a direct connection with a person’s overall physical well-being, as the mouth is the entry point for food that the body digests.

Our mouths contain bacteria, and while most of it is harmless, some bacteria can cause disease. So it is important to have regular oral examinations carried out by your dentist.

The Importance of Regular Oral Examinations

While our mouth is designed to handle bacteria, poor oral hygiene could result in a gum infection. Should that occur, it could have far-reaching consequences for the person’s general health.

Ask the best dentist in Noosa, Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, and they will gladly confirm that regular oral examinations are vital if you wish to maintain a high level of oral hygiene. Every 6 months is an ideal time frame for dental examinations.

Essential Saliva

We secrete saliva as a form of washing away bacteria, and certain forms of medication reduce the amount of saliva that the body produces. This can cause the onset of an oral infection.

Decongestants, painkillers, antihistamines and antidepressants can all reduce saliva production, which could lead to oral infection, which, in turn, could lead to something much worse.

There are informative articles you can find online that examine the link between oral hygiene and overall health, which make for interesting reads.

oral health

Medical Conditions Linked to Oral Health

The following medical conditions are linked to oral health:

  • Endocarditis – This condition is when bacteria spreads through your body and lines the heart. The bacteria could originate from the mouth.
  • Cardiovascular Disease – Although the connection is not fully understood, some doctors believe that heart disease and clogged arteries might be linked to oral bacteria that finds its way into the bloodstream.
  • Pneumonia – Certain bacteria could be transferred to the lungs via the mouth, which is known to be a cause of lung infections such as pneumonia.
  • Diabetes – Diabetes reduces the body’s ability to fight off infection, and there does seem to be a link between gum disease and diabetes. Those with diabetes are more likely to suffer with an oral infection, so if you suffer with diabetes, regular oral examinations are even more important.
  • HIV/AIDS – People with AIDS are known to suffer from bacterial oral infections, as the disease affects the body’s ability to fight infections of every kind.

Good Oral Hygiene Practices

You can reduce the risk of oral infections by following these steps:

  • Brushing and flossing after every meal, as well as before and after sleep.
  • Use of antiseptic mouthwash to remove food particles that brushing and flossing missed.
  • Eat a healthy diet.
  • Limit the amount of sugar you consume.
  • Avoid using tobacco.

Finally, you should schedule oral examinations every 6 months, in order that the dentist can assess your oral hygiene. And should there be any issues, the dentist can carry out prompt treatment before any damage is done.

Once you understand the connections between oral health and general physical well-being, you are more likely to pay attention to your oral hygiene practices.

SEE ALSO:
When is The Right Time to Visit A Denture Clinic
How To Look After Your Teeth, Hair And Nails
imporatnce of  oral hygiene
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