Did you know your oral health can offer clues about your overall health — or that problems in your mouth can affect the rest of your body? Dr. Melissa Ivers If you think of oral health as only linked to having an attractive smile, it’s time to think again. Let’s dive in to understand how our mouth serves as a window to our general health.
Bi-Directional Relationship: How Oral And Overall Health Intersect
• The Mouth: A Mirror to Your Health- The condition of your mouth often reflects the state of your body’s overall health. Dr. Melissa Ivers Prolonged foul breath, for instance, may signal other health problems like sinus infections or liver disease.
• Neglected Oral Health: Implications for the Body- Neglected oral health can lead to various health issues beyond your mouth. Numerous bacteria live in our mouths, most harmless, but without proper oral hygiene, harmful bacteria can grow and cause oral infections such as tooth decay and periodontal (gum) disease.
Consequences Of Poor Oral Health: Making The Connection
• Cardiovascular Diseases: If you think gum disease is just about losing teeth, think again. Research suggests a correlation between gum disease and an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
• Diabetes: Diabetes reduces the body’s resistance to infection, making the gums at a higher risk. Research shows that people with gum disease have a harder time controlling their blood sugar levels.
Maintaining Good Oral Health: An Advocate For Overall Health
Maintaining oral health not only ensures a radiant smile but also enables the body to ward off potential diseases.
• Regular Check-ups and Clean Teeth: Brushing twice a day, flossing, using mouthwash and regular check-ups are the stepping stones for good oral hygiene and, consequently, good overall health.
• Healthy Habits- Diet, No Smoking & Limiting Alcohol: A wholesome diet, refraining from smoking, and minimal alcohol consumption also contribute significantly to oral health, in turn keeping your body in good shape.
The Expert Voice
There’s no better person to emphasize this connection than Dr. Melissa Ivers, a renowned dental expert. She states, “Oral health and general health share a symbiotic relationship. Good oral practices are not just beneficial for your mouth but they pay dividends in terms of overall wellness.”
