The Connection Between Oral Health and Overall Health

Oral health and overall health - Bourne End Dental

Having a great smile is only one aspect of maintaining good dental health. Taking care of your teeth and gums can improve your general wellbeing because there is a strong link between oral health and general health. Here are some ways that dental health and general health are related:

* Heart health: Studies have indicated that the risk of heart disease is increased by gum disease, a prevalent oral health problem. Bacteria that accumulate in the mouth and cause gum disease can also cause heart disease because they can enter the bloodstream.
* Diabetes: Gum disease is more likely to affect diabetics, and diabetes management may become more challenging because of gum disease. This is because gum disease can impact blood sugar levels, and gum disease can be exacerbated by poor blood sugar management.
* Pregnancy: Gum disease has been connected to low birth weight and preterm labour in pregnant women. Pregnant women can assist ensure the health of both mother and unborn child by taking good care of their teeth and gums.
* Dementia and cognitive decline: Some studies have found a link between gum disease and a higher risk of dementia and cognitive decline.
* Health of the respiratory system: Gum disease has been associated with a higher risk of pneumonia and other respiratory infections.
* Mouth cancer: As a dangerous and potentially fatal condition, oral cancer can be prevented with proper oral hygiene.
* Overall image: Maintaining a healthy appearance also requires good oral health. Losing teeth can have an impact on how you smile and make it more challenging to eat and communicate. Tooth decay and gum disease are two conditions that can cause tooth loss.

Self-esteem: Confidence and self-esteem can both benefit from good oral health. You could feel more assured in social and professional settings when you have confidence in your teeth and gums.

So how do you keep your mouth in good health? Here is some advice:

* Use fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth twice daily.
* To get plaque and food debris out from in between your teeth, floss every day.
* To help eliminate bacteria and freshen your breath, use mouthwash.