Did you know that your oral health and overall health are related? Aching teeth, bad breath, swollen and painful gums are all indicators of poor oral health. Bacteria responsible for these oral problems can enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation and infection wherever they spread. This further increases the risk of overall health complications.
Let’s see what type of diseases are you prone to if you suffer from poor oral health and some simple ways in which you can maintain a healthy mouth to reduce the risks of developing related diseases.
What Are the Types of Diseases Related to Poor Oral Health?
Listed below are the type of diseases to which you may become susceptible to if you have poor oral health.
Inflammation in gums can make matters worse if you are a diabetic as it gets more difficult for you to control your blood sugar levels. Also, people suffering from diabetes are more prone to periodontal disease, which makes it all the more important for them to maintain good oral health.
- Cardiovascular Disease
Those suffering from periodontitis are at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular problems or heart diseases. The bacteria which cause swelling in the gums can enter your bloodstream and travel to the arteries in your heart. This may result in atherosclerosis which eventually leads to a heart stroke or endocarditis where the inner lining of the heart becomes infected and inflamed.
If you are suffering from gingivitis – a form of gum disease, chances are that these disease-causing bacteria may travel to the brain either through the bloodstream or the nerve channels in the head which might lead to the development of Alzheimer’s disease.
- Respiratory Infections
Bacteria which cause infection in your teeth and gums can spread further into the body. They can be inhaled into the lungs or travel through the bloodstream. This increases the risk of lung infection and other health problems if the bacteria are circulated throughout your body via blood.
How to Maintain Good Oral Health?
Now that you know how your oral health can impact your overall physical health, here are some simple and effective tips to ensure that your mouth remains problem-free. Take a look:
Follow Proper Brushing Technique– This includes using a good brush and changing it every three to four months. Worn out brush won’t help you clean your mouth effectively. Use gentle brushing strokes and brush twice daily for two minutes. As for the toothpaste, always use one which contains fluoride.
Never Forget to Floss – Flossing is an important part of oral health care routine but it is also the most neglected by a majority of us. Flossing helps remove food particles which are stuck between your teeth. Since your toothbrush cannot reach in such areas, it’s better to use floss and a mouthwash also to ensure that your mouth is completely clean.
Always Eat a Balanced Diet – Choose healthy foods that improve oral health. These include fresh fruits, green leafy vegetables, cheese, milk, plain yogurt etc. Avoid sugary and acidic foods such as sweets, sodas and candies to prevent tooth decay.
Do Not Skip Dental Visits – Avoiding dental visits continually will prove detrimental to your oral health in the long run, even if you religiously follow a strict oral hygiene routine at home. Your dentist can not only guide you better regarding how you can maintain good oral health but also detect any early signs of oral problems. Hence, to maintain healthy pearly whites regular dental checkups are a must.
A simple thing to remember is that the health of your mouth can affect the health of your entire body and it holds true vice versa also. Even small prevention measures can go a long way in maintaining good oral health which reduces the risks of related overall health issues. So protect your teeth and gums with the above mentioned prevention tips and regular dental checkups.