How Oral Health Impacts Overall Health

Like the rest of your body, your mouth is full of bacteria, most of which are quite safe. However, some of these bacteria can spread disease as your mouth enters your digestive and respiratory systems.

The dentist will check the body’s natural defenses and proper oral hygiene practices like daily brushing and flossing. However, if you will ignore good dental care, germs in the mouth can multiply to the point where they cause infections like cavities and gum disease.

Saliva production may be suppressed by certain drugs such as decongestants, antihistamines, opioids, diuretics, and antidepressants. Saliva washes away food and neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth, providing a line of defense against pathogenic microorganisms.

According to studies, many disorders can affect oral bacteria and the inflammation brought on by a severe form of gum disease (periodontitis). 

What diseases are related to dental health?

Your oral health may play a vital role in many illnesses and ailments, such as:

1. Endocarditis. 

The inner surface of your heart chambers or valves can become infected when bacteria or other germs from another area of your body, like your mouth, move through your bloodstream and cling to certain spots there (endocardium).

2. Cardiovascular Disease

Even while the relationship between oral bacteria-induced inflammation and infections and heart disease, clogged arteries, and stroke is not fully known, some research implies that it may be.

3. Pregnancy and Delivery Difficulties. 

Low birth weight and early birth are both connected to periodontitis.

4. Pneumonia. 

Pneumonia and other respiratory illnesses can be brought by certain bacteria in your mouth that can be drawn into your lungs.

Your dental health may also be affected by specific disorders, such as:

1. Diabetes.

Diabetes makes gum disease more likely because it makes the body less able to fight off infections. Diabetes seems to cause gum disease more often and worse in people.

Studies show that those with gum disease also struggle harder to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Keeping up with your periodontal health is one way to keep your diabetes under control.

2. HIV/AIDS.

Oral problems, such as painful ulcers on the mucosa, are common in people with HIV/AIDS.

3. Osteoporosis. 

The bone-weakening disorder has a link with tooth loss and periodontal disease. There is little chance that the jawbones will get any harm from a few medications used to treat osteoporosis.

4. Alzheimer’s condition. 

As Alzheimer’s disease advances, dental health starts to deteriorate.

Eating disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, certain malignancies, and Sjogren’s syndrome, an immune system ailment that produces dry mouth, are additional conditions related to oral health.

How can I safeguard my dental health?

Practicing good oral hygiene every day ensures your dental health. 

You should spend two minutes twice a day brushing your teeth and cleaning your teeth with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush for better results. 

• Remember to floss!
• Use mouthwash after brushing and flossing to eliminate any leftover food.
• Reduce your intake of sugary meals and drinks and eat healthily.
• After three to four months, or sooner if the bristles have faded or spread, you should replace your toothbrush.
• Plan on visiting the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
• Restrict yourself from using tobacco products

If you are concerned about your dental health, you should immediately report your dentist in New Lenox. Taking care of your overall health means taking care of your dental health.

Dentist in New Lenox

Tell your dentist in New Lenox about any changes in your general health, especially if you’ve recently been ill or have a chronic illness like diabetes or any drugs you take.