How your oral health and overall health are linked

Like other areas of the body, your mouth teems with bacteria — mostly harmless. But your mouth is the entry point to your digestive and respiratory tracts, and some of these bacteria can cause disease.

Normally the body’s natural defenses and good oral health care, such as daily brushing and flossing, keep 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.

Also, certain medications — such as decongestants, antihistamines, painkillers, diuretics and antidepressants — can reduce saliva flow. Saliva washes away food and neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth, helping to protect you from microbes that multiply and lead to disease.

Studies suggest that oral bacteria and the inflammation associated with a severe form of gum disease (periodontitis) might play a role in some diseases. And certain diseases, such as diabetes and HIV/AIDS, can lower the body’s resistance to infection, making oral health problems more severe.

Steps you can take to protect your oral health

To protect your oral health, practice good oral hygiene daily.

• Eat a healthy diet and limit food with added sugars.
• Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled brush using fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily.
• Use mouthwash to remove food particles left after brushing and flossing.
• Avoid tobacco use.
• Replace your toothbrush every three months or sooner if bristles are splayed or worn.
• Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings.

Also, contact your dentist if you have any concerns. Make an appointment today with your friends at Longmeadow Family Dental Care. After all, taking care of your oral health is an investment in your overall health.