How Oral Hygiene Is A Reflection Of Overall Health

Posted by Jeffry Jack on June 3rd, 2019

Did you know that your oral health is a mirror for overall health? Do you know that poor mouth health can have an effect on the body? If you are unaware of these facts, then consider the following things to judge your overall well being.

Know the connection of mouth and your health

Like our stomach, mouth is filled a lot of healthy bacteria that breaks the food in simpler and digestable form. Maintaining a regular oral regime and choosing the right food items can keep the bacteria at check. Without proper oral hygiene, bacteria can reach levels that might lead to oral infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease. In addition, certain medications such as decongestants, antihistamines, painkillers, diuretics and antidepressants — can reduce saliva flow which could lead to many health issues. Saliva washes away food and neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth, helping to protect you from microbial invasion or overgrowth that might lead to disease. According to many physicians, oral bacteria and the inflammation associated with periodontitis which is a severe form of gum disease , might play a role in some diseases like diabetes and HIV/AIDS, which makes oral health problems more severe.

Conditions linked with oral health

Less than we know that poor oral health might contribute to various diseases and conditions, like :

•  Endocarditis

 Endocarditis is an infection of the inner lining of your heart. Endocarditis usually occurs when bacteria or other germs from another part of your body, such as your mouth, spread through your bloodstream and attach to damaged areas in your heart.

•  Cardiovascular disease

Heart disease and conditions like clogged arteries and stroke might be linked to the inflammation and infections that oral bacteria can cause.

Pregnancy and birth

 Periodontitis has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.

Other health conditions that might affect your oral health includes:

•  Diabetes

 Diabetes reduces the body's resistance to infection putting the gums at risk. Gum disease appears to be more frequent and severe among people who have diabetes.

•  Osteoporosis 

Osteoporosis makes bones weak and brittle and is believed to be linked with periodontal bone loss and tooth loss.

Other conditions that might be linked to oral health include eating disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, head and neck cancers, and Sjogren's syndrome. Because of these potential links, it is important to consider dental services in Cicero, NY to keep a track of changes in the overall health.

Author’s bio: The author is a blogger and the article is about dental problems.