Oral Health And How It Affects General Health Article

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Oral Health and how it Affects General Health

In the past, dentists and physicians have tended to view dental health and the mouth as separate from and having no impact on the rest of the human body. In recent years, this viewpoint has changed drastically.

Author: Sara Goldstein

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Links have been discovered between dental health and a variety of bodily ailments, some extremely serious. Now, even family physicians are making tooth and mouth examinations a part of their routine examination process.

Conditions Linked to Poor Dental Health

Poor dental health can cause an overall reduced quality of life due to pain and isolation brought on by an unsightly appearance. Chronic illnesses often go hand-in-hand with oral conditions. A few of the health problems that have been linked to poor dental health include the following:

• Heart disease – Bacteria from the mouth can travel through the bloodstream to the heart, where a heart infection, or endocarditis, can result. Also, bacteria can contribute to clogging of the arteries.
• Stroke – Increased risk of stroke accompanies poor dental health due to its impact on circulation.
• Diabetes -- People with diabetes are especially vulnerable to gum disease, and gum infections can elevate their risk of diabetic complications.
• Early births – Infections of the mouth can travel to infants in the womb, contributing to premature births.
• Lung diseases – Bacteria from infected teeth can travel to the lungs, irritating existing conditions and causing lung infections.
• Depression – Social isolation brought on by poor appearance and pain can lead to depression.

Make Good Dental Health a Priority

To avoid complications that accompany poor dental health, take the following steps:

• Brush your teeth twice each day and floss at least once per day.
• Visit your dentist routinely to identify dental problems early.
• Eat a healthful, balanced diet that includes plenty of zinc, vitamin C and folic acid.
• If you are pregnant, make dental health an even greater priority to ensure the health of your baby.
• Brush children’s teeth until you’re certain they’re competent on their own.

Communicate Your Current Health Status to your Dentist

Be sure to tell your dentist about any health problems you are experiencing, especially recent bouts of illnesses or chronic conditions. Give him/her your complete health background, including medications you take—both over-the-counter and prescription. Make sure you inform your dentist if you smoke or are pregnant.

No matter what your current health status is, it’s critical to be proactive. Practice good dental hygiene and visit your dentist every six months for a thorough examination and professional cleaning.

About Author

If you are in the Phoenix, Mesa or Scottsdale, Arizona region, please give the office of Dr. Lesueur and Dodaro a call at 480-834-6991. These professionals work hard to promote patient knowledge about proper dental care that can help you avoid serious complications. Please visit their website to learn more about how they can facilitate your dental well being.

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Oral Health and how it Affects General Health