The Impact of Oral Health on Your Overall Health - What to Know

Did you know that oral health problems can affect a person’s overall health and well-being? Everyone knows that brushing one’s teeth daily and visiting one’s dentist every six months can prevent any oral health issues, such as tooth decay and gum diseases. However, there’s more to it than meets the eye.

In the following, we’ll further expound on how your oral health can impact your overall health. Keep on reading as well to earn some vital tips on how to take good care of your oral health.

Oral health issues and chronic diseases

Tooth decay (dental caries) and gum diseases (gingivitis and periodontitis) are the most common oral problems. Brought by your eating and drinking habits and without proper oral hygiene, plaque can grow and accumulate in your mouth quickly. As a result, this film of bacteria erodes your teeth enamel, irritates your gums, and leads to tooth loss over time.

When your mouth and teeth are filled with bacteria, they can get into your body, affecting other organs and your health in general. At times, the difficulty in chewing and swallowing can affect your nutrition, which can make your health condition worse.

Chronic diseases linked to poor oral health

As mentioned, several studies have shown a link between poor oral health and an increased risk of chronic health problems. Below are some chronic health diseases to be wary of:

• Cardiovascular disease – linked to gum disease and total teeth loss
• Respiratory disease – linked to missing teeth and eating difficulties
• Stomach ulcers – linked to poor oral hygiene
• Kidney disease – a warning sign of oral health problems
• Diabetes – linked to a total loss of teeth and gum disease
• Oral cancer – linked to gum disease and the use of mouthwash containing alcohol
• Stroke – linked to gum disease and poor oral health
• Obesity – may be linked to periodontitis
• Dementia – tooth loss from any cause may increase dementia risk

Causes of oral health problems

It’s best to know what causes your oral health problems so that you’ll be able to address them accordingly. Below are the common causes of oral health problems:

• High sugar consumption: Having a diet that is high in sugar can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum diseases. The chances are that the bacteria in plaque feed on sugar.
• Tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption: Both have been identified to increase the risk factors for oral health problems.
• Poor health hygiene: Not brushing and flossing your teeth on a regular basis can lead to plaque.
• No dental visit: Not visiting a dentist for regular check-ups can also lead to oral health problems, as tooth issues aren’t treated immediately.

Vital tips for your oral health

Now that we’ve determined the causes of health problems, here are a few important tips for your oral health.

• Make sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day
• Floss your teeth after every meal
• Drink plenty of water, especially tap water containing fluoride
• Minimize consumption of sugary, starchy, and acidic foods and beverages
• Quit smoking and reduce alcohol intake
• Make sure to visit your dentist at least every six months and when needed

Final words

Several studies have found significant links between oral health and overall health. That’s why it’s vital that you take good care of your teeth and oral structure to reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases, not compromise your overall health, and improve the quality of your life.

Whether you have an emergency dental need or are looking for affordable dentistry, Dental House MI is here for you. If you are in Ann Arbor & Ypsilanti (Ypsi), Washtenaw, Michigan, make an appointment with us!