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BÁC SĨ DƯƠNG THỊ THÙY NGA
Did you know that your oral health can reveal information about your overall health, or that problems in your mouth can have an impact on the rest of your body? Learn more about the relationship between your oral health and your overall health to protect yourself.
What’s the connection between oral health and overall health?
Your mouth, like the rest of your body, is teeming with bacteria, most of which are harmless. However, because your mouth is the gateway to your digestive and respiratory tracts, some of these bacteria can cause disease.
Bacteria are normally kept under control by the body’s natural defenses and good oral health care, such as daily brushing and flossing. However, without proper oral hygiene, bacteria levels can rise to the point where they can cause oral infections such as tooth decay and gum disease.
Decongestants, antihistamines, pain relievers, diuretics, and antidepressants, for example, can all reduce saliva flow. Saliva washes away food and neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth, aiding in the protection of the body against microbes that multiply and cause disease.
Oral bacteria and the inflammation associated with a severe form of gum disease (periodontitis), according to research, may play a role in some diseases. Furthermore, certain diseases, such as diabetes and HIV/AIDS, can reduce the body’s resistance to infection, exacerbating oral health issues.
What conditions can be linked to oral health?
Your oral health might contribute to various diseases and conditions, including:
- Endocarditis. This infection of the inner lining of your heart chambers or valves (endocardium) usually happens when bacteria or other germs from another area of your body, such as your mouth, spread through your bloodstream and attach to specific areas in your heart.
- Cardiovascular disease. Although the link is not fully understood, some research suggests that inflammation and infections caused by oral bacteria may be linked to heart disease, clogged arteries, and stroke.
- Pregnancy and birth complications. Premature birth and low birth weight have been linked to periodontitis.
- Pneumonia. Bacteria in your mouth can enter your lungs and cause pneumonia and other respiratory diseases.
Certain conditions also might affect your oral health, including:
- Diabetes. Diabetes weakens the body’s resistance to infection, putting your gums at risk. Diabetes appears to increase the frequency and severity of gum disease. According to research, people with gum disease have a more difficult time controlling their blood sugar levels. Diabetes control can be improved with regular periodontal care.
- HIV/AIDS. Oral problems, such as painful mucosal lesions, are common in people who have HIV/AIDS.
- Osteoporosis. This bone-weakening disease is linked to tooth loss and periodontal bone loss. Certain osteoporosis medications carry a minor risk of causing jaw bone damage.
- Alzheimer’s disease. Worsening oral health is seen as Alzheimer’s disease progresses.
Other conditions that may be linked to oral health include eating disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, certain cancers, and Sjogren’s syndrome, an immune system disorder that causes dry mouth.
Inform your dentist about any medications you’re taking as well as any changes in your overall health, especially if you’ve recently been ill or have a chronic condition like diabetes.
How can I protect my oral health?
You can keep your teeth for your lifetime. Here are some things you can do to maintain a healthy mouth and strong teeth.
- Drink fluoridated water and brush with fluoride toothpaste.
- Practice good oral hygiene. Brush teeth thoroughly twice a day and floss daily between the teeth to remove dental plaque.
- Visit your dentist at least once a year, undergo a periodic dental check-up, even if you have natural teeth or have dentures.
- Do not use any tobacco products. If you smoke, quit.
- Limit alcoholic drinks as well as caffein beverage.
- If you have diabetes, work to keep the disease under control. This reduces the risk of other complications, such as gum disease. Gum disease treatment may help lower your blood sugar level.
- If your medication causes dry mouth, consult your doctor about a different medication that might not cause this side effect. If you can’t avoid dry mouth, drink plenty of water, chew sugarless gum, and avoid tobacco and alcohol.
- See your doctor or a dentist if you have sudden changes in taste and smell.
- When acting as a caregiver, help older individuals brush and floss their teeth if they are not able to perform these activities independently.
Also, if you have an oral health problem, contact your dentist right away. Taking care of your teeth and gums is an investment in your overall health.
You can consider BeDental. With the best dental professionals in Vietnam, BeDental brings devotion and dedication to every customer as if we were family. BeDental is a reputable and professional dental system with various branches in city centers, which helps customers travel easily. In addition, BeDental has the latest imported dental equipment, which is certified for safety by the Ministry of Health. 5-star facilities provide customers with a relaxing atmosphere while experiencing high-class dental services.
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