Dental health is linked to general health because the mouth is the entry point of your wellbeing. Bacteria can thrive in the mouth, which is home to hundreds of types, most of them harmless. Dental health is therefore linked to a person’s general health.
However, some bacteria can cause illness because your mouth is the gateway to your digestive and respiratory systems. Bacteria are normally kept under the control of regular oral health care, such as frequent brushing and flossing. However, busy schedules, age, and certain medications that reduce saliva can make oral illness more likely. If a medicine gives you a dry mouth, talk to your doctor or pharmacist; do not stop or change it on your own.
Read More: How can a dentist help you replace missing teeth?
Now, you might be wondering how poor dental hygiene affects overall health?
When your teeth are crooked, broken, decayed, or missing, it leads to chewing problems along with food lodgement. Improper chewing may contribute to digestive issues like:
- Indigestion
- Acidity
- Constipation
- Reduce appetite
This shows how the digestive system is dependent on oral health. In case you have any decay, missing teeth, or difficulty chewing, visit a dentist in Calgary.
Apart from this, your dental health could have a role in several diseases and ailments, including:
Endocarditis: Bacteria or other germs from another part of the body, such as the mouth, can travel through the bloodstream and attach to the heart. It can cause an infection of the inner lining of your heart chambers or valves (endocardium).
Cardiovascular disease: Although the link is not entirely understood, some evidence links oral bacteria and gum inflammation with heart disease, clogged arteries, and stroke. Research has not shown that one directly causes the other.
Complicated pregnancy and childbirth: Some studies have linked periodontitis (advanced gum disease) with premature birth and low birth weight. If you are pregnant, keep up with dental care and tell your dentist.
Must See: What are the ways to take care of your porcelain veneers?
Pneumonia: Pus discharge from the tooth, excessive decay, or periodontitis cause bacterial overflow in the mouth. Such bacteria from your mouth may be breathed into your lungs and contribute to pneumonia and other respiratory illnesses, especially in older adults or people who are very ill.
- Also, Problems in front teeth can affect your smile, confidence and mental wellbeing.
- A person’s psychological wellbeing may be affected by oral pain related to tooth decay and other dental health problems.
Oral health disturbances can also be suggestive of some systemic illness, such as:
Diabetes
In people with diabetes, gum disease appears to be more prevalent and more severe.
Diabetes can put your gums at risk since it may reduce the body’s resistance to infection. People with diabetes are more likely to have severe gum disease.
Check Now: How to take care of your oral hygiene while wearing braces?
Some research suggests that treating gum disease may help with blood sugar control. Keep following the diabetes care plan from your doctor.
HIV/AIDS
Oral problems, such as painful mouth sores, are common in people with HIV/AIDS, especially when the infection is not well controlled.
Osteoporosis: tell your dentist if you have osteoporosis and which medicines you take for it, since some bone medicines affect dental treatment planning. Do not stop a bone medicine without talking to the doctor who prescribed it. Bone loss around the teeth and tooth loss have been linked to this bone-weakening illness.
Other conditions that can show signs in the mouth include eating disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, and certain types of cancer. Sjogren’s syndrome, an immune system condition, can cause dry mouth.
Read More: How to take care of your child’s oral health this summer?
So, problems from mild tooth decay to severe gum disease may affect your physical and mental wellbeing. Also, certain oral symptoms can give you an idea about systemic health. If you notice changes such as bleeding gums, a sore that does not heal, loose teeth or a dry mouth that does not go away, book a visit with your dentist in Calgary. See your doctor about any general health concerns.
Your mouth’s health is a good indicator of your overall health. People have remarked that the mouth is a “window” into the rest of the body. Dentists may notice early signs of some systemic diseases in the mouth and suggest you see your doctor. The purpose of a regular dental exam is to do more than check for cavities. As part of this checkup, your dentist will also be looking for any other symptoms that may suggest the need for treatment or medical care.
How to take care of oral health?
Keeping your teeth and mouth in good shape is part of good general health. Regular dentist appointments can help, along with these habits:
- Reduce your alcohol usage.
- Maintain a healthy, well-balanced eating regimen.
- Quit smoking and other tobacco use, such as chewing areca nuts. A pharmacist or doctor can suggest support to help you quit.
- Use protective gear to help prevent facial injuries.
Also Read: How long will your teeth whitening last after the treatment?
To maintain oral health, along with home oral care, visit a dental clinic in Calgary by making an appointment with our dentists today. Regular dental exams are also important. Working with your dental team may help you avoid some of the most common oral health problems.
Next step: Learn about dental exams and checkups at The Port Dental Clinic in Calgary NE. We are open 7 days a week and accept new patients. Book online or call 403-345-1110.
