subject: The Oral And Systemic Connection- Change Habits To Improve Health [print this page] How well you care for your teeth and gums can greatly affect your overall health. Neglecting your oral health can open the door to an array of health problems, including oral cancer and heart disease. Researchers have found possible connections between various gum problems and heart disease, stroke, asthma, and an array of other diseases and conditions.
Certain dental problems, such as progressive gum disease, can have a direct affect on your risk for other medical conditions, including stroke, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease. If you're living with gingivitis or periodontitis, for instance, regular periodontal therapy is key to keeping these serious health problems at bay. You cannot be healthy with an unhealthy mouth any more than one can be healthy with an infected foot.
Keep Your Teeth in Shape with Proper Brushing
Brushing your teeth regularly is vital to maintaining healthy teeth and gums while preventing periodontal diseases. It is also important to make sure you choose the right toothbrush for your teeth and use proper brushing techniques. Done correctly, brushing your teeth at least twice a day can help ensure long-term oral health.
To get the most out of your daily brushing routine, follow these tips:
*Brush your teeth at least twice a day.
*Take time to thoroughly brush and floss your teeth.
*Angle your brush slightly toward your gums when brushing along your gumline.
*Brush gently
*Brush with a fluoride toothpaste to fight off tooth decay
*Replace your toothbrush every three to four months
If you need additional help figuring out the best method for brushing your teeth, talk to your dentist or hygienist. A toothbrush alone can't do everything to maintain your oral health and teeth. So remember to floss everyday and to visit your dentist for regular checkups.
The Oral-Systemic Connection
An oral-systemic connection describes a link between various diseases and conditions of the mouth, and medical conditions of the body. Certain medical conditions of the body have early oral manifestations, making regular dental visits integral to maintaining a healthy oral environment and controlling oral infections from the body that can cause tooth caries and periodontal disease.
The following are medical conditions, viruses and diseases that have an oral-systemic connection:
*Aids - White patches on the tongue and inner cheeks are indicators of AIDS.
*Diabetes - People with diabetes who happen to have periodontal disease may suffer excessive bone loss of the jaw or surrounding bone structure and have difficulties healing.
*Heart Disease - Poor oral health caused by chronic dental infections may increase the risk for cardiovascular disease and stroke.
*Pancreatic Cancer - Strong evidence has found a link to periodontal disease and a person's increased risk for pancreatic cancer.
*Stroke - Studies have linked periodontal disease with strokes.
It is extremely important to take care of your teeth, gums and oral health. As you age, you may be asked by your dentist in Sacramento to schedule more than the ADA-recommended two appointments each year, which can be a great benefit to people at-risk of developing oral health issues. Contact your Sacramento dentist today if you are experiencing any symptoms of periodontal disease. Early prevention is key in protecting the health of your mouth and your body.
