How Oral Health influences General Wellbeing
Many people are unaware of the impact oral health can have on our overall health and general wellbeing. Having a healthy mouth not only has a positive effect on our self-confidence, it also enables us to eat, talk and engage with others without experiencing pain or discomfort. Serious oral health issues such as bacterial infections can be life threatening, and living with such a condition can drastically alter daily routines and social roles. Maintaining a good oral hygiene routine and visiting your dentist regularly will help to ensure your teeth remain free from decay and disease. In turn, you will enjoy optimal general health and wellbeing all year round.
Here are four ways in which oral health and general health are related.
- Chronic disease such as diabetes and heart disease are associated with poor oral health
- Oral disease can lead to physical and psychological disability
- There are common risk factors shared between oral health problems and serious diseases
- General health issues can in some cases cause or exacerbate oral health conditions
Tooth Decay and Tooth Loss + Gut Health
Tooth decay and tooth loss are two of the most common oral health conditions affecting people around the world, and they are often associated with poor oral hygiene and poor nutrition. Within the mouth exist a wide array of good and bad bacteria. Bad bacteria and oral infections can easily spread into the respiratory and digestive tracts, increasing the risk of developing heart and lung disorders. Similarly, poor gut health can also affect oral health by potentially increasing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
The best way to protect and improve oral and gut health is to ensure that you reduce sugar intake, eat a healthy balanced diet and maintain a good oral hygiene routine.
Poor Oral Health + Psychological and Social Wellbeing
Having persistent bad breath or crooked, missing or discoloured teeth can adversely affect an individual’s psychological and social wellbeing. As both the mouth and teeth are used extensively for verbal and non-verbal communication, the presence of oral health disorders can have a negative effect on work and home interactions. This may in turn cause someone to be more socially withdrawn, develop anxiety or experience low self-esteem. Left untreated, these conditions can become chronic.
Promoting Good Oral Health
The link between oral health and general wellbeing is clear, so it goes without saying that it’s worth taking care of your teeth. Many common oral health issues are avoidable, with the following all going a long way in helping you maintain a healthy smile for life.
- Brush Twice Daily – use a soft toothbrush to brush twice daily (morning and night).
- Floss daily
- Choose a Quality Toothpaste – opt for a fluoride toothpaste which is approved by the Australian Dental Association.
- Eat a Balanced Diet – a diet high in natural foods will nourish the body. Try to abstain from sugary and acidic food/beverage as much as possible.
- Avoid Smoking – the chemicals and carcinogens within tobacco smoke are very harmful to the human body, including the teeth and gums.
- Drink Water – ensure that you drink at least 2L of fluoridated water daily to stay hydrated and remineralise weakened tooth enamel.
- 6 Monthly Checkups – visit your dentist for a checkup every 6 months, so that any issues can be identified and treated in the early stages.
Due for a Check-up? Visit Sydney Park Dental Today
Neglecting oral health concerns can have negative flow on effects for your overall health. Been a while since your last check-up, or have a dental concern in need of attention? Call Sydney Park Dental today to book an appointment, we look forward to seeing you soon.