General Dentistry: The Importance of Good Oral Hygiene

Your general dentistry professional knows that oral health has a strong connection to the body's overall wellness level. The mouth is the point of entry to the respiratory and digestive tracts, and the usually harmless bacteria that enters the mouth regularly can cause disease in those areas. Without sufficient oral hygiene to control the growth of bacteria, overall health can be compromised.

What conditions are affected by oral health?

The health of your mouth and the overall health of your body are inextricably linked, with connections to a variety of health problems and diseases.

Cardiovascular disease

The connection between cardiovascular disease and oral health is not completely understood, but general dentistry professionals indicate that clogged arteries, heart disease, and stroke may be associated with infections and inflammation caused by oral bacteria.

Complications in pregnancy and birth

Periodontitis, an advanced stage of gum disease, has been correlated with low birth weight and incidents of premature birth. Pregnant women are encouraged to visit their general dentistry office to ensure healthy teeth and gums during gestation.

Diabetes

Diabetics have a reduced ability to fight infections, which makes gum disease a real problem for those living with this chronic condition. Diabetics with gum disease generally have more difficulty maintaining a healthy level of blood sugar. Regular general dentistry visits can help with diabetes control.

Endocartitis

This potentially life-threatening infection of the heart chambers' and valves' inner lining is caused by the spread of bacteria through the bloodstream. The bacteria attach to specific parts of the endocardium, causing serious damage to the heart's valves.

Osteoporosis

This disease causes progressive weakening of the bones and is linked to tooth and periodontal bone loss. Some of the medications used to treat this condition carry a slight risk of jawbone damage. As the prevalence of osteoporosis increases with age, seniors should remember to visit the general dentistry office regularly to maintain good oral health.

Pneumonia

Bacteria in the mouth can be easily transferred to the lungs, which can result in pneumonia and other diseases of the respiratory system. Regular visits to the general dentistry office can help keep oral bacteria to a minimum.

Other conditions

As Alzheimer's disease progresses, patients often experience a decline in their oral health. People living with HIV/AIDS often experience problems in their mouths, including painful mucosal lesions. Other health conditions that have been linked to oral hygiene include certain cancers, rheumatoid arthritis, eating disorders, and Sjogren's syndrome, a disorder of the immune system that results in dry mouth.

How can I maintain good oral health?

To maintain good oral hygiene and protect your overall wellness, follow these strategies:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day
• Floss every day
• Eat a healthy diet, limiting sugar and starch
• Use a fluoride rinse for enamel protection and removal of food particles
• Do not smoke
• Get a new toothbrush every three months
• Visit your general dentistry professional twice annually