How Oral Hygiene Influences Your Health

Neglecting to brush, floss, and use mouth wash morning and night can become a habitual oversight. Some feel the routine takes too long, especially when they are tired and just want to go to bed. However, brushing at least twice daily is essential for maintaining not only the health of your pearly whites, but avoid preventable diseases and illness.

The Mouth-Body Connection

Poor oral hygiene can lead to the accumulation of harmful bacteria in the mouth, which can often cause gum disease, tooth decay, and persistent bad breath. When gum diseases progress, the bacteria enter the bloodstream and travels to other parts of the body, potentially leading to more serious health issues. Having bad oral hygiene can lead to consequences for various systems in the body.

Cardiovascular Health

Poor oral health can lead to cardiovascular disease. Bacteria from gum disease can attach to fatty deposits in the arteries, contributing to atherosclerosis, or lesions on the walls of arteries. Atherosclerosis can increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Additionally, inflammation caused by periodontal disease is linked to other cardiovascular problems such as endocarditis, an inflection of the inner lining of the heart chambers or valves. The presence of this bacteria in the blood can create to blood clots, further exacerbating the risk of a cardiovascular incident.

Respiratory Health

Bacteria from infected gums can travel to the lungs, causing inflammation and infection. Inhaled oral bacteria can also lead to respiratory infections such as pneumonia. This is particularly concerning for those who have preexisting respiratory issues or a weakened immune system.

Bone Health

Poor oral hygiene and gum disease can lead to the loss ofthe alveolar bone, which supports the teeth. Loss in bone mass, known asosteoporosis can spread throughout the body. People with osteoporosis are athigher risk of tooth loss.

Mental Health

Chronic dental pain and missing teeth from poor hygiene can lead to low self-esteem, social anxiety, and depression. Having oral issues make eating, speaking, sleeping, and other daily tasks uncomfortable. Ensuring good oral hygiene can improve quality of life and promote better mental health by reducing pain and boosting self-confidence.

Digestive Health

The process of digestion begins in the mouth where food is broken down by chewing and mixed with salvia, which contains enzymes to start the digestion of carbohydrates. Poor oral health such as gum disease or missing teeth can make it difficult to chew food properly, leading to digestive problems. Additionally, swallowing bacteria from the mouth can lead to infections in the gastrointestinal tract.

5 Tips to Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Oral hygiene is crucial to your body’s overall health. There are several effective ways to keep your oral hygiene up to date and protect against tooth decay and loss.

• Brush Twice Daily: Brushing your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste removes plaque and prevents cavities. Make sure when brushing you cover all surfaces of your teeth and tongue.
• Floss Daily: Flossing removes food particles and plaque caught between your teeth and gum line. Often, your toothbrush alone cannot reach these areas.
• Use Mouthwash: An antimicrobial mouthwash reduces plaque and keeps your breath fresh. Use the mouth wash as directed on the packaging, to kill bacteria.
• Maintain a Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins support oral health. Limit sugary snacks and drinks, as they can lead to cavities. Drink plenty of water to wash away food particles after meals.
• Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist for cleanings and check-ups every six months. Early detection of oral conditions will lead you to early correction and fewer health complications.

Oral Hygiene and Health

Connected Health specializes in personalized primary care. Our relationship-based, high-contact medical practice means your PCP can connect you with trusted specialists, including dentists, to support your unique health goals.

Do you need a doctor who cares about all aspects of your health, not just the one day a year they see you? Schedule a meet and greet with a Connected Health Primary Care Provider today by requesting information online or calling our office at 724-933-4305.