How Poor Oral Health Could Affect Your General Health

By Author: Frank Meshkani
Total Articles: 78
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Let’s admit it; we always take our oral health for granted until something goes wrong. In fact, 50% of Australians don’t brush their teeth twice a day, according to the Australian Dental Association. Also, the report from the ADA shows that smoking, alcohol consumption, and poor dental health are the major causes of poor dental health among Australians.

Oral health is much more than the health of your mouth, teeth, and gums. Do you know poor oral health has negative consequences on your overall health as well? Yes, gums that bleed, teeth that ache, and breath that smells bad are all indicators of poor oral health. Bacteria from your mouth could easily get into the bloodstream, causing infection and inflammation wherever it travels.

That’s why it is essential to practice good oral hygiene and see your dentist Blacktown regularly for dental check-ups.

Here is how your overall health gets affected by poor oral health:-

Heart ...
... disease

Research shows that poor oral health increases the risk of heart disease. If the gums are inflamed and infected, the bacteria could seep through into the bloodstream, causing the arteries to build up plaque and harden. The hardening of arteries is something serious which should never be ignored as it leads to heart blockages and increase the likelihood of having a heart attack.

Fortunately, gum disease could be prevented by preventing good oral hygiene habits, like brushing twice, flossing at least once in a day, and regular dental cleanings. If your gums bleed or inflamed, it is advisable to visit the 24 hour dentist Blacktown and get it treated.

Diabetes

Research shows a link between poor oral health and diabetes. Not only are diabetics susceptible to infection such as infected gums, but also make diabetes hard to control. Symptoms could worse when the sugar levels are high and low. If you are a diabetic patient, it is essential to take good care of your oral health. Brush regularly, clean your mouth after every meal, eat healthy foods, and visit the Blacktown dental clinic regularly for professional cleaning.

Pregnancy complications

Expectant mothers should be an extra vigil on their oral health as hormonal changes in the body during pregnancy could cause oral infection easily. Keep in mind, any infection in the mother’s body increases the risk of pregnancy complications.

Respiratory Infections

You might experience respiratory infections due to poor oral health. Bacteria in the mouth could be breathed into the lungs and seep into the bloodstream, causing respiratory infections.

How to prevent

Scheduling regular dental visits and practising good oral hygiene habits are the best ways to prevent both dental and overall health problems.

- Brush at least twice a day

- Floss regularly

- Quit smoking cigarettes or chewing tobacco products

- Use toothpaste and mouthwash products that contain fluoride

- Cut down sugary foods and drinks

- Stick to a healthy diet for optimum nutrition

Good oral health is crucial for maintaining over health. Visit your dentist and get your mouth, teeth, and gums checked regularly.

The author of this article is a renowned dentist in Blacktown. Along with a team of professionals, he offers a range of dental services. Visit https://www.westpointdental.com.au for more details.