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Oral Health: A Gateway to Overall Well-being
It's more than you might think that your oral health reveals about your overall wellness. explores the link between your mouth, teeth, and gums' health and its implications on general bodily health.
What is the connection between oral health and general health?
The body houses countless germs, many of which are harmless to us. However, the mouth serves as the gateway from the digestive tracta long channel through organs that food passes throughand also connects with the respiratory tracts. Consequently, some germs in your mouth might lead to illnesses throughout other parts of the body.
Your defenses and good oral hygiene usually keep these germs under control. The key factors include dly brushing and flossing practices. Without proper dental care, the germs can multiply beyond manageable levels and cause infections like tooth decay and gum disease.
Moreover, certn medications that reduce saliva production might also play a role in this process. Medicines such as decongestants, antihistamines, pnkillers, water pills, and antidepressants can decrease saliva flow. Saliva helps mntn balance by washing away food debris and neutralizing the acids produced by germs. Consequently, when saliva levels are low, it might lead to disease development.
Research has linked oral pathogens and inflammation from oral infections like periodontitis with cardiovascular problems. There is also some evidence suggesting a link between heart disease, clogged arteries, and stroke and inflammation caused by oral bacteria. Similarly, pregnancy complications such as preterm birth and low birth weight have been associated with gum disease called periodontitis.
Certn health conditions might influence oral health too:
Diabetes: The body's ability to fight infection is compromised when you have diabetes, which puts the gums at risk of gum disease that appears more frequently and is more severe in diabetic individuals. Regular dental care can help manage this condition effectively.
Periodontal treatment might be required by a specialist named periodontist if your gums need more attention.
If you notice any oral health issues, it's crucial to address them promptly. Taking care of your oral health protects your overall well-being.
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This article is reproduced from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/dental/art-20047475
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Oral Health Links to Overall Well being Infections from Poor Dental Care Risk Saliva Role in Fighting Mouth Germs Oral Pathogens and Cardiovascular Diseases Diabetes Impact on Gum Health Mentioned Regular Dental Check ups for Better Health