What is Oral Health and Its Importance?
Oral health refers to the health of your teeth, tongue, gums and everything in your mouth. Having good oral health means you have healthy teeth and gums. It also keeps you protected from food-borne diseases as, most of the time, the bacteria is killed in the mouth itself. It’s critical to take good care of your teeth and gums and to see your dentist regularly because poor oral health is linked to issues with your heart, diabetes, breathing, and cancer, and could even hurt your child if you are pregnant.
Importance of Oral Health:
- Oral health affects overall health
- Oral health affects the quality of life
- Oral health is essential for people of all ages
- Oral health can impact nutrition
- Oral health is cost-effective
The Mouth-Body Connection
The Mouth-Body Connection refers to the relationship between oral health and overall health. The mouth is an integral part of the body, and its health is closely connected to the health of the rest of the body.
The mouth is the entry point for food, drink, and air and can also be an entry point for bacteria and other pathogens. Maintaining it and taking care of not just your teeth but also your gums and tongue becomes essential to avoid all types of diseases.
The connection between oral health and overall health is two-way, meaning that oral health can impact overall health, and overall health can also influence oral health. This means you must care for your mouth and your body by brushing and flossing, ensuring it receives all the necessary nutrients.
Oral Health & Systemic Diseases
Oral health is intricately linked to overall systemic health, with various studies highlighting connections between poor oral health and several systemic diseases. Here’s how bad oral health can increase the chances of developing heart disease, diabetes, lung diseases, cancer, and complications during pregnancy:
Heart Diseases
Poor oral health, particularly gum disease (periodontitis), has been linked to an increased risk of heart diseases such as endocarditis, where bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and attach to damaged areas in the heart. This can lead to infections and inflammation of the heart valves. Additionally, inflammation in the gums may contribute to inflammation throughout the body, a risk factor for heart disease.
Diabetes
There is a bidirectional relationship between diabetes and gum disease. Poorly controlled diabetes can lead to increased susceptibility to gum infections and periodontal disease. Conversely, gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugar levels, worsening diabetes symptoms. Maintaining good oral health is crucial for managing diabetes effectively.
Lung Diseases
Oral bacteria and inflammation from gum disease can be aspirated into the lungs, potentially leading to respiratory infections such as pneumonia and exacerbating conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Individuals with gum disease may be at a higher risk of developing respiratory issues due to the bacteria entering the lungs. And as a result, gum health also becomes vital.
Cancer
While research is ongoing, some studies suggest a correlation between poor oral health and certain types of cancer, particularly oral cancer. Chronic inflammation from gum disease and poor oral hygiene may contribute to the development of cancerous cells in the oral cavity. Additionally, some studies have found associations between periodontal disease and an increased risk of pancreatic cancer and certain types of blood cancers.
Pregnancy Complications
Pregnant individuals with poor oral health are at a higher risk of experiencing complications such as preterm birth and low birth weight. Gum disease has been linked to an increased risk of premature birth and preeclampsia. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also make gums more susceptible to inflammation and infection, emphasizing the importance of good oral hygiene.
Tips to Maintain Your Oral Health
- Brush Two Times A Day
- Brush Your Tongue
- Use Fluoride Toothpaste
- Use Floss And Mouthwash
- Maintain A Balanced Diet
- Implement A Vitamin-Rich Diet
- Drink Plenty Of Water
- Avoid Acidic/Carbonated Drinks
- Limit Sugary Foods
- Have Regular Dental Check-Ups
Conclusion
Your mouth is the gateway for everything. Whether it be good and healthy food or harmful bacteria. What enters and goes into your body depends on you. If you take care, you can have beautiful, healthy teeth, and if you don’t take enough precautions, you will have decaying black teeth. The choice, at the end of the day, is yours to make.
