
Oral health is still largely overlooked when it comes to health and well-being management. Dental health and overall health are connected in more ways than many people know. For instance, several studies have shown that problems in your mouth, teeth, and gum health can translate into serious systemic diseases. Beyond that, dental problems can spill into different areas of life and impact day-to-day experiences. Read on to find out all the different ways dental health and wellness are linked.
Quality Oral Care Helps Prevent Systemic Diseases
The mouth harbors a plethora of germs and bacteria. While most are harmless, some disease-causing kinds can exist due to poor oral care. Dental health and overall health are connected in that the mouth is the doorway to the digestive and breathing systems. If mouth bacteria get into these areas and spread to other body parts through the bloodstream, they can cause infections and illnesses. For instance, studies have linked oral bacteria, infections, and gum disease symptoms such as irritation and swelling to these systemic diseases and conditions:
- Cardiovascular diseases: These include a broad variety of conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, including coronary heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.
- Endocarditis: This is a bacterial infection of the heart valves or inner lining of heart chambers. This can occur if mouth bacteria travel through the bloodstream.
- Pregnancy and birth complications: Oral infections have been associated with preterm delivery and low birth weight in newborns.
- Bacterial Pneumonia: This is a respiratory condition that can occur if oral bacteria enter the lungs.
- Diabetes Mellitus: Gum disease and diabetes have been shown to have a bidirectional relationship. Severe gum disease can complicate blood sugar level control.
This dental health and overall health relationship calls for mindful dental care to keep disease-causing germs and infections at bay.
Dental Health Supports Psychological Well-Being
It’s a proven fact that dental concerns like missing teeth, bad breath, stains, and crooked teeth can affect one’s ability to speak and smile confidently. They can chip away at someone’s self-esteem and exacerbate social anxiety. Dental health and overall health are therefore linked in that good oral health supports mental and emotional well-being.
Dental Health Impacts Quality of Life
Dental health and wellness are also linked, in that oral concerns like toothache, irritation, and inflammation are generally known to impair one’s ability to tackle daily chores, speech, and productivity at work. This can lead to a less fulfilling life and mess with one’s emotional well-being.
Dental Health Affects Nutrition
The dental health and overall health connection can also be seen in terms of nutrition. Teeth support sufficient chewing and optimal absorption of food into the body. People with missing teeth tend to experience dietary changes, including lower diet quality and reduced intake of many nutrients. Reciprocally, malnutrition can get in the way of better oral and whole-body health.
Practicing Mindful Oral Care
Now that we’ve established how significant the dental health and overall health and wellness relationship is, it’s important to stay on top of your dental hygiene and care to deter germs from reaching levels that can trigger tooth decay, gum disease, and potentially, systemic diseases. Thoughtful dental care entails:
- Brushing teeth and tongue at least twice a day for at least two minutes with a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste.
- Using dental floss or a water flosser to remove germs between teeth.
- Using dentist-recommended antibacterial mouthwash to clean leftover germs and prevent infections.
- Seeing the dentist yearly for dental cleanings and checkups.
- Promptly addressing dental concerns like cavities, gum disease, missing teeth, misalignments, and worrying imperfections like stains through quality dental treatments like dental implants, Invisalign® clear aligners, dental veneers, and more.
- Managing underlying systemic illnesses that can affect oral health. Clearly communicate any recent and current health conditions and medications to your dentist.
- Observing a healthy diet and proper hydration.
- Quitting tobacco use.
Healthy Teeth for a Healthier You
The dental health and overall health connection is very important. Managing dental health can help prevent infections and systemic illnesses. Additionally, it facilitates proper nutrition, psychological well-being, and a fulfilling quality of life. Therefore, dental health is vital to your overall wellness. At Pure Smile Makeover Center, we’re a highly reputed provider of comprehensive, personalized dental care to local and international patients in Mexico. You’re welcome to explore our dental blog for more reliable information on quality dental care and treatments. If you’re looking to address any dental concerns, schedule a consultation with our clinic today and begin the journey to your dream smile and long-lasting oral health.