Systemic Diseases & How Are They Related To Oral Health
The oral cavity is an integral part of the body and reflects the general health of a person. This implies that dental health is an aspect that cannot be ignored. Good oral hygiene is essential for the overall well-being of an individual.
Moreover, there exists a significant connection between oral hygiene and general health. Research clearly indicates that there is a striking association between oral health and systemic diseases. Quite a number of health issues like heart disease, low birth weight, respiratory disease and diabetes mellitus are linked to poor oral hygiene. Periodontal health can have an impact on systemic health in the following ways:
- Research suggests that periodontal diseases can exacerbate diabetes mellitus
- People with poor periodontal health have a higher risk of incurring cardiovascular diseases
- The risk of preterm birth is higher in women with poor oral health
- There also exists a moderate association between oral health and respiratory diseases
Periodontal disease is preventable and in most cases treatable. This means that the incidence and severity of systematic diseases can be significantly lowered by maintaining good oral hygiene.
The mouth serves as the entry point of bacteria and it can lead to infections in other parts of the body. Bacteria from the oral cavity can enter the bloodstream in various ways including tooth brushing, flossing, chewing and dental procedures.
A healthy immune system can take care of transient bacteria. However, when the immune system is compromised by diseases, the bacteria from the mouth can aggravate certain health conditions. In other words, poor oral health can impact the susceptibility of the host to systemic diseases.
It is necessary to recognize that general health and oral health are inter-linked and are integral to each other.
Oral diseases are some of the most common chronic diseases in spite of the fact that they are preventable. Maintaining oral hygiene can immensely influence your overall health and is a great investment. Good oral health is essential at every stage of life and not only ensures efficient nutrition to the body but also enhances self-esteem. Oral issues can lead to difficulty in speaking and can hinder daily activities and interaction.
If you notice symptoms of any oral issues, make sure you visit your dentist. Some of the symptoms of periodontal disease include the following:
- Swollen or sore gums
- Bleeding gums
- Chronic bad breath
- Changes in the alignment of the teeth
- Gums that are loosely attached to the teeth
An early diagnosis can prevent the condition from aggravating further into a serious dental problem. After all, taking good care of your teeth and gums is synonymous with taking care of your whole body.
If you are looking for a reliable dental service in Brunswick, visit Lygon Family Dental.
Our dental solutions cover all aspects of general and cosmetic dentistry. We use the latest techniques to offer effective and relaxing treatment to our patients. If you wish to know more about our service, get in touch with us.
You can email us at [email protected]. Alternatively, you can also call us on (03) 9939 0323
