Your oral health can offer clues about your overall health; something as simple as dry lips and a dry tongue could indicate that you’re dehydrated, but its not limited to what your body is lacking; it can also hint at other problems that are happening.

Its important to understand what your body is telling you in order to protect not only your oral health but also your overall health. 

What is The Connection? 

Your mouth is the entry point to your digestive and respiratory tracts, and as it is already teeming with mostly harmful bacteria, it is not uncommon for harmful bacteria to enter and cause problems like disease. 

If you follow the recommended practises, such as twice-a-day brushing, flossing and mouthwash, you may be able to keep the bacteria at bay in collaboration with your body’s natural defences. Without giving your body the treatment it deserves and needs, there is only so much your immune system can do. Neglection can cause the bactiera to increase and lead to oral infections such as gum disease and tooth decay. 

There are studies that suggest that common problems, such as gum disease while pregnant, are due to hormonal changes. While there are precautions and maintenance to be taken, due to this change within the body, it creates problems with your oral health. 

Additionally, oral bacteria and the inflammation associated with periodonitis (a form of gym disease) can be associated with diabetes, HIV, and AIDS, as they can lower your body’s resistance to infection, making you more susceptible to oral health problems. 

There are multiple studies that suggest a correlation between oral health and overall health; there is no doubt that they can be the cause and effect of each other and how your body has to be taken care of from all angles. 

What Conditions Can Be Linked? 

There are various diseases and conditions that your oral health might contribute to: 

1. Endocarditis

Is an infection of the inner lining of your heart that typically occurs when bacteria from a part of your body, usually your mouth, spread through your bloodstream and attach to your heart.

2. Cardiovascular Disease

Research suggests that heat disease, clogged arteries and strokes are limited to the inflammation and infections that oral bacteria can cause.

3. Birth Complications

 Periodentitis has been linked to premature births. 

4. Pneumonia

Certain bacteria can sometimes enter your lungs, which can cause problems with your respiratory system, such as diseases and potentially pneumonia. 

5. Diabetes 

By reducing your resistance to infection, diabetes has a direct link to your gums and a correlation. People with diabetes often have issues with their gums, such as gum disease. 

6. Osteoporosis

As a bone-weakening disease, it is not shocking that it has an impact on your teeth, and tooth loss is a common side effect. Although there are treatments for osteopenia, it does carry a risk of damage to bones in the jaw. 

Read: How To Create The Habit Of Going To The Gym Daily 

7. Alzheimier’s Disease

It has become a common oral health issue among those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and works hand in hand. As the disease gets worse, their oral health follows. 

How to Protect Your Oral Health

Its important to treat your body with the utmost kindness, as you can save yourself and the health care service a lot of stress in the future. Although at times it can be out of your control, there is maintenance and things you can do to help yourself. 

Two-Time Rule 

Brush, floss, and use mouthwash twice a day with dentist-approved products such as fluoride toothpaste. 

Replace your toothbrush every 3–4 months or sooner based on your tooth bristles. 

Diet 

Eat a healthy diet and limit your sugar intake. The food you eat can contribute to a lot of things for both your overall and oral health. This can improve your immune system’s defences and prevent a lot of the conditions listed above. 

Habits 

Lifestyle changes are essential to ensure you give your body the best chance to stay healthy; this could mean quitting the use of tobacco. 

Family Genetics 

While your own medical history is important, understanding and being aware of issues within your family’s history can keep you one step ahead of any potentially harmful medical conditions, allowing you to take any precautionary measures. 

Mental Health

While your oral health is linked to your overall health, so is your mental state. The likelihood that you’re taking care of yourself while you’re feeling low can sometimes be slim. Understanding how to take care of your mental state will impact your overall health. 

Visit Your Dentist

Schedule and attend regular dental checkups. Whenever you have time to visit a dentist, you should take the opportunity to find a trusted dentist. It can be as simple as googling an established dentist in Milton Keynes. This is essential and helps catch problems early.