A number of studies have stressed the significance of Oral Health. Taking an extra step to prioritize your oral health can definitely aid in combating numerous health conditions. Apart from being a window of one’s overall health, the mouth also plays an important role in promoting confidence and self-esteem. A beautiful smile showcasing white teeth with a normal breath is vital.

Why Focus on Oral Health?

According to the American Dental Association, observing one’s oral health can help combat a number of health issues. The mouth is a crucial part of the body with the main purpose of receiving food, chewing it, and aiding its passage to the small intestines. As one chews the food or consumes any kind of drink, the mouth consists of saliva that aids in softening the food. The enzymes responsible for saliva production do their work regularly to help the mouth stay refreshed and hydrated.

Within the mouth, there are bacteria, which can turn viral in case no required care is given to the mouth. With this, acids will accumulate with the help of the bacteria and a plaque will be formed. This certainly results in gum infection, cavities, among other oral infections. Immediate symptoms of a poor oral health include;

Bad breath
Loose teeth
Gum bleeding
Tenderness
Canker sores
Toothache

Other conditions like stress and depression also worsen one’s dental health as they significantly lead to tooth sensitivity and dry mouth.

Health conditions Triggered by Poor Oral Health

For decades, 80% of humans weren’t aware of the significance of a healthy mouth. Cases where doctors examine one’s tongue and mouth are overlooked, yet the mouth is a mirror to one’s overall health. It shouldn’t surprise you to note that a number of medical conditions are diagnosed with the help of one’s oral health state. The following are some of the medical conditions triggered by a poor oral health;

Erectile Dysfunction

Studies currently indicate a link between Erectile Dysfunction (ED) and periodontal disease. A condition known as the chronic periodontal disease makes the gums shift away from the teeth, which lets the bacteria spread to the bones via the bloodstream. This can make it impossible for a male to achieve an erection easily.

Diabetes

Diabetes cases are at times made severe because of a periodontal disease and studies show that diabetic patients are more likely to develop gum infections. In addition, a periodontal disease may make it hard for you to control your blood sugar levels.

As a diabetic patient, you will have a troubled sex drive that will definitely affect your sexual life.

Cardiovascular disease.

An oral condition known as gingivitis causes an inflammation that may lead to clogged arteries at the same time blood clots. In severe cases, a patient’s condition may worsen to atherosclerotic plaques in the arteries, which may increase one’s risk of stroke and heart attack.

Preterm Birth & Low Birth Weight

Severe gum disease has been associated with preterm birth and low birth weight in pregnant women. This is why pregnant women are generally advised to prioritize their dental visits to eliminate any chances of periodontal disease and gum infections that are triggered by hormonal imbalances.

Other medical conditions associated with poor oral hygiene include infertility, respiratory infections, dementia, kidney disease and Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Solution

Individuals are advised to carry out the following;

Visit a dentist for a dental checkup every six months
Brush your teeth twice a day
Floss regularly
Increase calcium and vitamin intake
Take plenty of water
Quit or avoid smoking