The Link Between Your Oral Health and Your Overall Health
Oral hygiene plays a critical role in your day to day life, probably more than you realize. The health of your mouth can affect the health of your overall body. Having good oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing your teeth every day, helps keep bacteria under control and allows your body’s natural defense to fight off those germs.
The mouth is filled with bacteria but luckily most of this bacteria is harmless. Without proper oral health, the level of bacteria can build up and lead to oral infections, including gum disease and tooth decay.
Oral Health Linked to Disease
Your mouth is the main source for infections. It’s a window into what’s going on throughout the rest of your body. The status of your oral health is often helpful in detecting early signs of infections or disease.
Your doctor has the ability to test your saliva and find out the status of your overall health. Saliva is another defense the body has to protect you from an overgrowth of bacteria that could result in severe health issues. It contains antibodies that attack viral infections when your body comes into contact with them, such as the common cold.
Although saliva helps protect you from some bacteria and infections, it is not always enough. Bacteria are constantly coming into contact with your mouth in the form of dental plaque. Plaque is the sticky white substance that forms when particles of food are left in your mouth after eating and produces the bacteria responsible for gum disease and tooth decay. Plaque tends to form in mouths with poor dental hygiene, i.e. patients who don’t floss regularly or brush their teeth after meals.
Poor dental health may increase your risk of developing serious health issues such as:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Diabetes
- Preterm birth
Protecting Your Oral Health
The good news is that you can take care of your oral health and help your overall health. Protect yourself by practicing good oral habits including:
- Brushing your teeth at least twice a day.
- Flossing daily.
- Eating a healthy balanced diet.
- Replacing your toothbrush every three months.
- Scheduling regular dental exams.
- Avoiding tobacco use.
Contact Hamby Family Dental Center Today
If an oral health issue comes up, don’t wait. Make an appointment with Hamby Family Dental Center today. We offer numerous dental services in Fuquay Varina and have decades of expertise in helping families keep their mouth healthy. Contact us today by calling (919) 552-2431 or filling out our request an appointment form.