It’s Oral Health Month, and we’re here to tell you why a healthy mouth is essential to your overall health and how to stay proactive on all fronts. Of course, you should brush, floss, and visit your dentist every six months for a healthy mouth, but did you know that’s only the start? Many factors play a role in your oral health. Let’s look at the main ones affecting most of the population.
Everything you eat or drink enters your mouth and goes through your esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine. This means that the food you eat directly affects all of these organs. So, not only is it crucial to transfer nutrients through healthy foods to keep these organs functioning efficiently and effectively, but it’s also essential you set your body up for success through proper oral health practices. Without good oral hygiene, the built-up bacteria can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and issues in your digestive and respiratory tracts. Starting with healthy food and hygienic practices will go a long way in ensuring the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, and many of your organs.
In addition, saliva helps wash away food and acid produced by bacteria in your mouth, decreasing your chances of many diseases and oral health issues. Unfortunately, some medications, such as decongestants, antihistamines, diuretics, antidepressants, and painkillers, reduce saliva flow and cause dry mouth. When your body produces little saliva, it’s harder to wash away the bacteria, and you become more susceptible to diseases like periodontitis.
There are a few ways to counteract the feeling of dry mouth, but the most effective is to sip water throughout the day. In addition, you should limit your caffeine intake, never smoke or chew tobacco, discontinue the use of mouthwash with alcohol and opt for an alcohol-free wash, and chew sugar-free gum – this stimulates saliva flow. While dry mouth isn’t technically a symptom of poor oral health techniques, it adversely affects your oral health.
Poor oral health can lead to other health issues, such as endocarditis, cardiovascular disease, pneumonia, and pregnancy or birth complications.
This June (and every month after), ensure that a healthy mouth is your priority. Brush for at least two minutes twice daily, floss, use mouthwash, visit your dentist regularly, and watch what you eat; sugary food and drinks can significantly impact your oral and overall health. If you’re due for a cleaning, schedule an appointment at Cakmes Dental Studio. We’re happy to get you on the right track and ensure your oral health is helping your overall health.