Why is dental health important to overall health?

Why is Dental Health Important to Overall Health?

Your oral health is far more important than you may realize. In this article, we will discuss how your oral health, including your gums and teeth, can impact your overall health.

Did you know that your oral health can reveal a lot about your overall health? Or that it can have a direct impact on your health. It is recommended to approach an emergency dentist Mississauga if you face any oral issues to prevent further damage.

An important indicator of health is oral health

Healthy People 2020 identified oral hygiene as one of the top 10 health indicators. This was in addition to other indicators like access to health and nutrition, HIV/AIDS, and heart disease. Good oral health is essential for functional performance as a human being. It is essential for communication, financial success, and human relationships. Poor dental health can lead to serious health problems, such as disabling and expensive health conditions, as well as painful and debilitating consequences.

This is particularly true for the lowest income and rural households that face the greatest barriers to accessing dental care. The ADA’s Health Policy Institute survey of Americans found that one fifth of low-income adults feel their teeth and mouth are in poor health. One third of those polled said their oral health affects their ability and willingness to apply for jobs.

Which conditions are linked to oral health and how can they be improved?

With the right habits, many of the factors that affect our oral health such as diet and hygiene can be controlled. Tooth decay (cavities), the most prevalent chronic childhood disease, can be prevented by good hygiene and healthy eating habits. Without these healthy habits and choices, plaque buildup can eventually lead to gingivitis, cavities, and severe gum disease. This puts your teeth and gums at great risk, as well as other parts of the body. Contacting the emergency dentist Mississauga at an early stage can prevent expensive treatments in the future.

What is the relationship between oral health, overall health, and dental health?

Your mouth is just like other parts of your body. It’s full of bacteria, but most of it is harmless. Your mouth is where your digestive and respiratory tracts enter, and bacteria from there can cause illness.

The body’s natural defenses, along with good oral hygiene, help keep bacteria under control. Without proper hygiene, bacteria can grow to levels that could lead to tooth decay or gum disease.

Certain medications, such as antihistamines and painkillers, decongestants, diuretics, antidepressants, and antihistamines can also reduce saliva flow. Saliva is responsible for washing away food particles and neutralizing acids from bacteria in your mouth. This helps protect you against microbes that can multiply and cause disease.

Some diseases may be linked to oral bacteria and inflammation caused by severe gum disease (periodontitis), according to studies. Certain diseases like diabetes and HIV/AIDS can make oral health issues worse. You should see your local emergency dental clinic Mississauga if you have any of the above-listed issues.

Which conditions are linked to oral health and how can they be improved?

The health of your oral health could be a contributing factor to many diseases and conditions.
Endocarditis. Endocarditis is an infection of the inner lining of your heart chambers and valves (endocarditis). This happens when bacteria or other germs spread through your bloodstream to attach to specific areas of your heart.

Cardiovascular disease. Research suggests that inflammation and infections caused by oral bacteria may be connected to heart disease, stroke, and clogged arteries.

Pregnancy and complications during birth. Low birth weight and premature birth have been linked to periodontitis.

Pneumonia. Pneumonia can result from bacteria buildup in the mouth.
Diabetes. Diabetes can put your gums at greater risk by reducing the body’s resistance to infection. Diabetes is associated with gum disease that appears to be more severe and frequent in people with diabetes. Studies show that gum disease can make it more difficult to control blood sugar. Diabetes control can be improved by regular periodontal treatment. HIV/AIDS. HIV/AIDS patients are more likely to have oral problems such as a painful mucosal lesion.
Osteoporosis. This bone-weakening condition is associated with tooth loss and periodontal bone loss. Some drugs that are used to treat osteoporosis can cause minor damage to the jawbones.
Alzheimer’s disease. As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, it is possible to see worsening oral health.

What can I do to protect my mouth health?

Good oral hygiene is essential to maintaining your oral health. Following are the few steps that you should follow to protect your mouth.

Two minutes should be spent brushing your teeth twice daily for at least two minutes. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Floss daily.
To remove food particles after flossing and brushing, use mouthwash.
Limit sugary foods and beverages to a healthy diet.
Your toothbrush should be replaced every 3-4 months. If your bristles become worn or splayed, you can replace them sooner.
Make sure to schedule regular cleanings and checkups.
Tobacco use is not recommended.
Dental care is changing

Despite all the scientific information we have, there is still a gap between the medical and dental professions and how care is delivered. The majority of the oral health workforce was historically concentrated in private practices where dentists led teams that included assistants, lab technicians, dental hygienists, and other office staff. These practices operate independently from most primary care and health systems.

You should also contact your emergency dental services clinic Mississauga immediately if you have any oral health problems. It is a good investment to take care of your mouth.