The mouth is one the main gateway into your body people are often surprised to discover the connection between having a healthy mouth and a healthy body. Your mouth is full of bacteria in a healthy mouth most of them generally harmless. The body’s natural defences and good oral hygiene practices, such as twice-daily brushing and interdental cleaning help to keep these bacteria under control. But without good dental care, these bacteria can reach very high levels leading to problems such as gum disease and tooth decay.
Dentists and scientists are looking to see if good oral hygiene practices can also help to defend you against COVID-19.
Having poor dental health has been associated with the following health conditions:
Diabetes
Gum disease causes inflammation. Inflammation impairs the body’s ability to utilise insulin. By improving your oral health and getting any gum disease treated can help you to bring diabetes under better control.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Gum disease bacteria has been linked to rheumatoid arthritis. Research is still ongoing but the NHS has published some information which makes for interesting reading if your suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. You can read it here…
Heart Disease
It’s clear that heart disease and gum disease often go hand in hand. Up to 91% of patients with heart disease also have periodontitis. It is suspected that periodontitis has a direct role which increases the risk of heart disease. The theory is that inflammation in the mouth causes inflammation in the blood vessels.
Obesity
Periodontal disease occurs in patients more susceptible to inflammation — who are also more susceptible to obesity. It is suspected that by treating one it can directly affect the other. More research is continuing in this area.
Pregnancy
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase a woman’s risk of gum related problems. Periodontitis has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight. Researchers are looking into the connection but it is believed that gum infection and inflammation, in general, seem to interfere with a fetus’ development in the womb.
Lung Conditions
Gum disease/periodontitis can worsen chronic inflammation in lung diseases such as asthma and COPD. If your gums are inflamed or infected they can send out a “distress signal” that places the rest of the body on alert.
Having a healthy mouth is an absolute must for better overall health. The mouth and body are not separate and both need to be healthy for improved overall health. Taking good care of your mouth can help you live well for longer.
Excellent care of your oral health is actually pretty straightforward. It’s a combination of good oral health care and daily practices.
• Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss or use interdental brushes daily
• Eat a healthy balanced diet and limit snacks between meals
• Replace your toothbrush every three or sooner if needed
• Have regular dental health checks
• Avoid tobacco and excessive alcohol
If you’re concerned about your oral health please get in touch with us by calling us on 0116 2891317 or emailing us info@smileessential.co.uk
