Dental Hygiene And Oral Health Weybridge: A Window To Your Overall Health

Did you know that our physical health and well-being are directly linked to our oral health? According to the American Dental Association, there is a direct, two-way relationship between our oral and physical health. This means that poor oral health can cause various physical health-related complications and vice versa. For example, research has shown that gum disease is linked to a higher risk of diabetes, premature birth, and heart disease. 

But, how is my oral and physical health linked? You may ask! This blog will help you understand this so-called oral-systemic link. So, continue reading to learn how to learn the best ways to enjoy perfect dental health and live an active and healthy life. 

How Can Poor Oral Hygiene Lead To Other Health Problems?

If you think that our mouth has no connection with the rest of the body, think again! The fact is that our mouth is the gateway to our entire body. Anything we eat or drink first passes through our mouth and then travels to the other digestive organs. So, if the mouth is diseased, harmful bacteria can travel along with our food to other body organs causing various general health complications. 

Can Dental Health Issues Have An Impact On Overall Health?

Yes, our physical health is directly tied to our oral health. For example, if someone has gum disease, the harmful bacteria from the gums can travel through our food or bloodstream to the systemic organs causing serious, even life-threatening medical complications. If these bacteria enter the cardiovascular system, they can significantly increase the risk of heart disease. 

Similarly, research has shown that gum disease can also affect blood sugar control, increasing the likelihood of diabetes in susceptible individuals. Interestingly, the British Diabetic Association states that people with type-II diabetes are three times more likely to develop dental health-related complications than non-diabetics. 

What Benefits Does Oral Health Give To Overall Health?

Good oral health offers many benefits for one’s physical health and well-being. First, when the mouth is not

 diseased, there is no risk of transmission of the disease-causing bacteria to other body organs, thereby preventing various medical issues. Similarly, optimal oral health will ensure that one can chew their food properly. As a result, the food will be optimally digested, providing sufficient energy to carry out the body’s essential reparative and growth-related functions. Finally, a beautiful smile is only possible with good dental health. So, having optimal oral health will help one boost their self-confidence. 

Can Tooth Decay Ever Be A Sign Of Poor Dental Hygiene?

Yes, tooth decay is an obvious sign of poor oral hygiene. To understand this, let us learn how tooth decay occurs. Dental cavities are formed when regular oral hygiene measures, such as brushing and flossing are ignored. This leads to the formation of plaque and tartar deposits on the teeth which promote bacterial growth. These disease-causing bacteria release toxins that make the pH of the saliva acidic, causing the removal of minerals from the teeth. The end result of this activity is the weakening of the teeth and the formation of cavities. So, it is easy to understand now that teeth cavities are formed only when optimal oral hygiene is not maintained. 

How Does Poor Oral Hygiene Contribute To Periodontitis?

The starting point of periodontal disease is poor oral hygiene. How? When oral hygiene is ignored, plaque and tartar deposits form on the teeth. These deposits promote bacterial adhesion, releasing toxins that irritate and damage the gums. The initial signs of gum disease are swollen, tender, and bleeding gums. However, in the later stages, the tissues supporting the teeth are affected, leading to excessive bone damage and the formation of pockets between the teeth and gums. Over time, there is extensive bone loss which makes the teeth mobile. If this condition is not treated timely, it can even result in tooth loss. 

What Causes Gum Disease? Can It Be Treated?

The causes of gum disease have been discussed above in detail. In short, the harmful bacteria residing in plaque and tartar deposits on the teeth release toxins that damage the gums and the tissues supporting our teeth in their sockets. The good news is that gum disease is completely reversible if treated in the early stages. However, in the advanced stages, there is irreversible bone loss which has to be corrected with bone grafting. Similarly, any teeth lost due to gum disease have to be replaced with dental implants. 

How Many Times Should You See A Dentist In A Year?

There is no defined schedule regarding oral health checkup visits. It all depends on your oral dental hygiene status. For example, if your dentist believes that you are at a higher risk of developing gum disease or tooth decay, they may ask you to see them every three months. On the other hand, if someone has a low risk of gum disease, they may be

 asked to visit only twice or once a year. 

How To Improve My At-Home Dental Hygiene Routine?

The best way to improve one’s oral hygiene at home is through regular brushing and flossing. When brushing, always remember to use a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Similarly, one should use a dental floss carrying the seal of acceptance of their local dental regulatory authority. You may also consider using mouthwash for added oral health protection. 

Now that we know the importance of maintaining good oral health, it is time to book an appointment with our dentist. If you live in Surrey, your best option is to visit Munro Hall Dental Clinic. Our highly experienced dentists are trained in treating all kinds of dental issues. So, make a New Patient Appointment Request today and begin your journey towards perfect oral health and physical well-being.