The Link Between Oral Health & Physical Health
Emerging research indicates that oral health may be a window into overall physical health. We all know that practicing good oral hygiene is important to support healthy teeth and gums, but poor oral hygiene has now been linked to increased systemic disease. According to the American Dental Association, early research suggests a potential link between periodontal disease and systemic conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease (2006). Periodontitis and periodontal disease are more severe forms of gum disease that are characterized by increased inflammation in the gums and mouth (Oral health: a window to your overall health, 2019). While further research is needed to better understand this connection, there is evidence to suggest that heart disease and clogged arteries may be related to the increased inflammation and infection rate that occurs in patients with periodontal disease.
If promoting dental health wasn’t enough of a reason to go to the dentist regularly, the implications of poor oral health on your overall wellbeing may be just the motivation you need. Practicing good oral hygiene is an excellent preventative care practice to support your continued oral and physical health. Good oral hygiene includes: twice daily brushing with a fluoride toothpaste and daily flossing - those wanting to go the extra mile can also use mouthwash after meals (Brush up on taking care of your teeth 2019).
Other info to include:
We are fans of fluoride in our toothpaste but not our water! Many of us have home filters that remove fluoride from our water (reverse osmosis filters). This are great, but you need to use a fluoridated toothpaste or mouthwash if you filter your drinking water.
Oral health need good bacteria just like our gut. It is best not to use mouthwashes with alcohol, they are too hard on the good bacteria. Good hydration, regular cleaning, and a diet rich in fermented foods, veggies, fruits, and low in sugar.
Dry mouth can be a sign of dehydration, autoimmune dysfunction, and medication reactions. Talk to your doctor if you have frequent dry mouth.
Citations
Brush up on taking care of your teeth. (2019, June 06). Retrieved April 01, 2021, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/dental/art-20045536
Healthy mouth, healthy body. (2006). The Journal of the American Dental Association, 137(4), 563. doi:10.14219/jada.archive.2006.0230
Oral health: A window to your overall health. (2019, June 04). Retrieved April 01, 2021, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/dental/art-20047475