There is a significant connection between your oral hygiene and your overall health. The state of your oral health offers small clues that would predict the condition of your health. The synergy between your oral health and your overall wellness determines whether you are suffering from a disease or you are prone to disease. We all think that oral health is just about taking care of your teeth and gums but essentially it is much more than that. Several dentists and doctors in renowned clinics, such as Clinic Viva, have started giving importance to oral hygiene and its significance.
Our mouth, just like the other areas of our body, teams up with harmless bacteria to fight problems. However, we often underestimate the fact that our mouth is the entry point to our body and it the entry point for our digestive and respiratory systems. If we do not take proper care of our oral hygiene and keep it clean, the bacteria can reach serious levels of causing decay and gum related diseases. Similarly, the role of salivation is also equally important. Saliva helps to neutralise acids produced by the bacteria in the mouth and it also washes away the food that we consume. In certain cases, when the teeth start to decay or lose their shine, people opt for procedures such as teeth whitening treatment or cosmetic dentistry to enhance the overall appearance of the teeth.
Here are some serious health problems associated with bad or unhygienic oral health:
– Dementia: Bacteria that are released from gum inflammation can spread to nerve channels, kill brain cells and lead to memory loss. Poor oral health has a significant impact on mental health.
– Cardiovascular disease: Due to inflamed gums, the bacteria that causes periodontal disease can get into the bloodstream causing heart diseases. The bacteria in the bloodstream can cause the arteries to build up plaque and harden, leading to blockages. This kind of damage leads to hypertension and an increase in risks for strokes.
– Respiratory infections: Bacteria from infected teeth or swollen gums can be breathed into the lungs. This can result in respiratory infections, pneumonia, acute bronchitis, etc.
– Diabetes: We are aware that diabetic patients are more susceptible to teeth or gum infections. However, periodontal diseases can in turn make diabetes more difficult to control. The gum diseases can make the blood sugar levels go haywire, worsening the symptoms of diabetes.
Some of the diseases are irreversible and can take a serious turn. The following points will help you keep a healthy oral hygiene routine:
– Consuming a healthy diet and limiting the intake of sugary food and drinks is essential.
It will protect your teeth and gums from decaying as these kinds of food can have a significant impact on the condition of your teeth.
– Brushing your teeth at least twice a day is essential. Brushing for at least 2 minutes and using fluoride toothpaste can remove all the unwanted bacteria clinicviva.
– Flossing daily is important as it removes dirt that cannot be removed from brushing.
– Replace your toothbrush every three to four months. You can replace it sooner if the bristles are worn out.
However, replacing it often is a mark of proper hygiene.
– Schedule appointments with dentists for regular cleanings and check-ups. It will help you stay updated with the overall health of your oral hygiene.