The importance of regular brushing and flossing habits is universally known. But the well-known ADA recommendation is about more than just keeping your teeth clean, healthy, and white.
Oral health is closely tied to your overall health and well-being, meaning that poor oral health increases your chances of having a heart attack, stroke, or another medical emergency. It also means you’re more likely to deal with other health complications (ranging from mild to severe) later on in life.
This article discusses the connection between your mouth, its health, and the rest of your body, including risks, signs of poor oral health, and how to prevent long-term problems.
What Is Your Oral Health, And Why Does It Matter?
“Oral health” describes the general condition of your teeth, gums, tongue, and surrounding soft tissue.
Multiple risk factors affect your oral health:
- A poor diet
- Tobacco and nicotine use
- Mental health and stress levels
- Alcohol consumption
- Genetic predisposition
- Your body’s reaction to bacteria
Poor oral hygiene causes plenty of problems inside your oral cavity, including:
- Tooth Decay
- Cavities (Dental Caries)
- Gingivitis And Gum Disease
- Yellow Teeth
- Mouth Sores
- Serious Oral Health Risks
The Connection Between Oral Health And Overall Health
The state of your oral health is closely linked to your overall well-being. When you neglect your oral hygiene, you put yourself at risk for several health problems throughout your body.
Briefly, here are a few:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Diabetes
- Kidney failure
- Respiratory issues
- Premature birth and low birth weight
- Pneumonia
- A weakened immune system
7 Best Practices For Healthy Teeth
The saying, “healthy body, healthy mind,” rings true. Based on the above, it’s clear oral health plays a role in both the former and the latter half of the statement.
So, how can you take care of your teeth?
- Establish And Maintain A Daily Oral Health Routine.
- Eat Healthy.
- Exercise Regularly.
- Exercise Regularly.
- See Your Dentist Twice Every Year.
- Quit Smoking And Vaping.
- Whiten Your Teeth For A Better-Looking Smile.
Wrapping Up
The bottom line is that your oral health and overall well-being are deeply intertwined. Taking steps to improve one will improve the other in ways you may not even realize.
The good news is your oral health doesn’t take much. Regular brushing, flossing, and bi-annual dentist visits are usually enough.
In the case of both your oral health and your overall well-being, taking the time to closely monitor and improve your habits is always worth it. Taking this advice to heart (and mouth!) will serve you for years to come.
