If you have an issue in your mouth, such as toothache, bleeding gums, and sores, your overall health will be greatly affected. Here in this blog, we will focus on oral health and how it is connected with your on the connection between your general health.

Your mouth has so many harmless bacteria, just like the other parts of the body. However, it is vital to note that some of the bacteria can lead to diseases, and the mouth is the entrance to your respiratory and digestive tracts.

Control the bacteria in your mouth, ensure you brush twice a day, and floss once every day. The natural defenses in your body will also play their role by controlling the bacteria. If you fail to observe proper dental hygiene, bacteria will increase to the levels of causing dental issues such as periodontitis and tooth decay.

Saliva performs a vital role in neutralizing acids that the bacteria produce and washing away the food. Consumption of medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, diuretics, painkillers, and antidepressants will minimize saliva flow. This will result in reduced protection from microbes causing diseases.

Inflammation linked to severe gum disease and oral bacteria plays a major role in causing some diseases. Other diseases such as HIV/AIDS and diabetes may lower your immunity, leading to severe oral health issues.

Conditions Linked to Your Oral Health

Here are some of the conditions that might occur due to poor oral health.
• Cardiovascular disease: Oral bacteria causes infection and inflammation that lead to stroke and clogged arteries.
• Endocarditis: When germs and bacteria from other body parts like your mouth spread via the bloodstream and attach to various parts of your heart, they infect the valves and your heart’s inner lining.
• Birth complications and pregnancy: Periodontitis may result in low birth weight and premature birth.
• Pneumonia: Various bacteria found in the mouth may move to the lungs leading to respiratory conditions such as pneumonia.
Here are conditions that might contribute to oral problems.
• HIV/AIDS: Individuals with HIV/AIDS tend to suffer from painful mucosal lesions, which affect their oral health.
• Diabetes: Diabetes reduces your immunity making your gums susceptible to infections. You might find that most diabetic individuals suffer from gum disease, and this affects their general health.
• Alzheimer’s disease: The progression of Alzheimer’s disease worsens your oral health.
• Osteoporosis: This is a condition that weakens bones and may lead to tooth loss or bone loss. The dentist may prescribe some drugs to treat the condition, which also can damage the jawbones.

Other conditions associated with oral health include rheumatoid arthritis, eating disorders, cancers, and immunity disorders that cause dry mouth. When you visit your doctor, tell them if you are on medication and suffer from chronic ailments such as diabetes.

Practice the following to protect your dental and oral health.
• Floss every day
• Brush your teeth two times every day using a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste
• Use mouthwash to get rid of food debris left in your mouth after flossing and brushing.
• Consume a healthy diet and avoid sugary foods
• Ensure you replace your toothbrush after three months
• Avoid tobacco consumption either by chewing or smoking
• Schedule regular dental cleanings and checkups

Finally, practicing proper oral hygiene will promote your oral health and overall health. Ensure that you invest in your oral health, and you will prevent so many conditions such as pneumonia and cardiovascular diseases. If you experience an oral health issue, do not hesitate to contact your dentist. I hope you will find our blog posts helpful.