The mouth, much like the eyes, can serve as a window into our overall health. Dentists, such as Drs. Kara Marshall-Roppa and Dominic Roppa of Smile Viera in Florida have long recognized this connection between oral health and systemic wellness. The term “systemic” refers to conditions that impact the entire body. Thus, issues originating from poor oral hygiene or dental ailments can lead to broader health complications.
Oral Bacteria: A Link to Major Health Problems
Our bodies are home to countless microorganisms. Many are harmless, but some are capable of causing significant damage if left unchecked. Regular brushing (at least twice daily) and flossing (daily) usually keep these organisms under control. However, neglecting dental hygiene can allow harmful bacteria in our mouths to escalate minor oral problems into major systemic conditions.
For instance, gum disease or tooth decay could become severe heart diseases due largely to the presence of these bacteria. Medical research has established connections between endocarditis—an infection spreading through your bloodstream and damaging heart muscles—and poor oral health. Additionally, risks for clogged arteries and strokes increase with exposure to bacteria from abscesses and gum disease.
Pregnancy Risks Linked To Poor Oral Health
Poor oral health during pregnancy has been linked with premature births, according to recent studies. They show correlations between maternal dental issues and early labor onset.
Oral Health Reflects Overall Body Wellness
Interestingly enough, doctors have found that 90% of systemic medical conditions display symptoms in our mouths first before anywhere else on our body. Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes often present themselves through an increased prevalence of gum disease. Other autoimmune diseases, such as HIV/AIDS, may manifest initially via lesions in the mouth. Lost teeth might even signal osteoporosis onset, which weakens bones, making them brittle.
Because plaque is a harmful bacteria, it can do a lot of damage. If you don’t get rid of it properly, it stays in your mouth and thrives. As a result, this bacteria can move into your gut and other places in the body. Over time, you can have major health issues relating back to your teeth and mouth. Keeping your teeth clean is not a simple matter of smiling. It protects your teeth and your overall wellness.
Preventing Illness with Good Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene, therefore, is a crucial component of overall health. Dentists recommend brushing at least twice daily or after meals and flossing daily. This removes bacteria-nourishing plaque that forms on our teeth, leading to tooth decay. Staying properly hydrated is also important for good oral health, as saliva washes away excess food particles. These can combine with saliva to form plaque and neutralize some bacterial digestive acids eating away at our tooth enamel.
A healthy diet low in added sugar helps limit food available for bacteria growth, while regular check-ups ensure early treatment of any arising issues. In conclusion, maintaining excellent oral hygiene not only preserves the integrity of your smile but may contribute significantly towards ensuring your systemic wellness.