"How oral health impacts overall health"!!!
Years ago, a
physician who suspected heart disease would probably not refer the patient to a
gum specialist. The same went for diabetes, pregnancy or just about any other
medical condition. Times have changed.... The past 5 – 10 years have seen
ballooning interest in possible links between healthy mouth and healthy body.
Like many
areas of the body, your mouth is filled with bacteria – most of them harm less.
Normally the body’s natural defences and good oral health care such as daily
brushing and flossing can keep these bacteria under control. However, without
proper oral hygiene, bacteria can reach levels that might lead to oral infections
such as tooth decay and gum disease.
Conditions
linked to oral health :-
1. Endocarditis :-
It is an
infection of the inner lining of your heart. It typically occurs when bacteria
or other germs from another part of your body such as your mouth spread through
your blood stream and attach to damaged areas in your heart.
2. Cardiovascular disease :-
Heart disease, clogged
arteries and stroke might be linked to inflammation and infections that oral
bacteria can cause. Hardening of the arteries causes plaque to develop on the
inner walls of arteries which thicken and causes an increased risk of heart
attack or stroke. People with gum infections are at increased risk of heart
attack and stroke. The more severe the infection, the greater the risk appears
to be.
3. Pregnancy and birth :-
Periodontitis has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.
Babies born too early or at a low birth weight often have significant health
problems like asthma, ear infections, heart conditions and learning disorders.
Infection and inflammation interferes with fetus
development in the womb.
4. Diabetes :-
It reduces the body’s resistance
to infection – putting the gums at risk. Gum disease appears to be more
frequent and severe among people who have diabetes. People who have gum disease
have a harder time controlling their blood sugar levels, and regular
periodontal care can improve diabetes control.
5. Lung infections :-
People with periodontal
disease have more bacteria present in their mouth which makes them more likely
to inhale germs which can lead to lung infections like pneumonia. For those who
have preexisting lung problems like chronic pulmonary obstructive disease (COPD
) gum disease may make it worse.
6. Kidney disease :-
Poor oral health seems to
link to chronic kidney disease which affect
blood pressure and bone health leading to kidney failure and heart
disease. Toothless adults have more chance to have chronic kidney disease.
To protect your oral health
Practice good oral
hygiene every day. For example :-
-
Brush
your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride tooth paste
-
Floss
daily
-
Eat
a healthy diet and limit between meal snacks
-
Replace
your tooth brush every 3 – 4 months / sooner if bristles are frayed
-
Schedule
regular dental checkups and cleanings
-
Avoid
tobacco use
“Taking care of your oral health is an investment towards your overall
health”
Dr.Krinita Motwani
Phone Number :- + 91 9820280343 / +91 9819002288
khar West- Mumbai,India
Email :- drkrinitamotwani@gmail.com
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