The human body is a complex puzzle, where one part is intrinsically linked to all the others. In regards to oral health, good dental hygiene involves much more than just your mouth. It is impossible to be fully healthy if you don’t have good oral health.
Oral-systemic health is the idea that oral health is a critical and interconnected component to your overall health and well-being. Studies show that people who have poor oral health are more likely to have other health conditions.
The Oral Health-Body Health Link
Gum disease is a very common dental problem, but it doesn’t just affect your gums. Gum disease has been linked to increased risk for health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, inflammation, osteoporosis, lower birth rate and alzheimer's.
This goes the other way, too. Many oral concerns like sores, swollen gums, and dry mouth syndrome may be signals of a much bigger problem: leukemia, kidney disease, diabetes, or pancreatic cancer.
Ensuring Whole Body Health
Here are some tips to increase and maintain overall oral and systemic well-being:
- Have an effective oral hygiene routine. Brush twice a day for two minutes each time, floss daily, and clean your tongue.
- Visit your dentist regularly. Professional cleanings and checkups at our office will keep your mouth clean and ensure you’re taking good care of it.
- Eat a healthful diet. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and natural, unprocessed foods contributes to the overall health of your body. Avoid too much sugar, especially sugary drinks.
- Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of pure, clean water throughout the day. A well-hydrated mouth produces saliva, which not only helps wash away sugar in our mouths, but also helps remove the acids sugars produce which attack our enamel and lead to cavities.