While maintaining your brushing and flossing routine is crucial for oral hygiene, it’s equally vital for your body’s overall health. Your teeth and body are more interconnected than you might realize. Research consistently indicates that oral health impacts multiple organs throughout your system, not just your mouth.
A 2023 study from the American Heart Association reveals that a healthy mouth is essential for brain health, while gum disease and plaque buildup can increase stroke risk significantly. “Our study expands existing evidence showing the adverse effects of oral health on cardiovascular health by extending it to brain health,” study author Dr. Cyprien Rivier explained to Healthline. “The core message,” he added, “is that we need to be extra careful with our oral hygiene because it has implications far beyond the mouth.”
The Mayo Clinic also highlights that gum disease and oral bacteria may contribute to pneumonia and pregnancy complications. This is just the beginning of how deeply connected your teeth are to your organs. Your mouth is, in fact, one of the most critical gateways to your overall health.
What else your teeth are trying to tell you
Maintaining your health from head to toe involves being aware of your body’s overall state. If something seems off in your mouth, don’t ignore it. While gum disease and plaque buildup can lead to medical issues, other, seemingly unrelated symptoms can also indicate serious problems. For instance, if you’re too old for a loose tooth, this might suggest undiagnosed heart disease or the potential onset of osteoporosis, according to Mosaic Dental. Although loose teeth often result from gum disease, this isn’t always the case, so it’s worth investigating.
Your breath can also signal a significant medical issue. Most bad breath can be managed with regular brushing and flossing. However, if it persists and smells like ammonia, it could indicate kidney disease, as noted by South Gables Dental. Persistent halitosis without a chemical smell might suggest certain cancers.
Given the real connection between oral health and overall well-being, it’s up to you to ensure you stay on top of your oral care, which may require lifestyle changes beyond regular brushing.
How to keep your teeth and gums healthy
Brushing twice a day is a good start, but it’s just the beginning. Flossing daily and brushing your tongue each time you brush your teeth are important steps. Replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if it looks worn out.
Good oral hygiene involves lifestyle choices as well. Limit sugar intake, as sweets can wreak havoc on your teeth. Avoid tobacco and consider your existing medical conditions. Is quitting smoking right for you? “Environmental factors such as smoking and health conditions such as diabetes are much stronger risk factors for poor oral health than any genetic marker — except for rare genetic conditions associated with poor oral health, such as defective or missing enamel,” according to stroke expert and neurologist Joseph P. Broderick, M.D., in the American Heart Association.
Diabetes isn’t the only condition affecting oral health. HIV/AIDS, certain cancers, and Alzheimer’s disease can also have negative impacts, per the Mayo Clinic. If you have any of these, it’s crucial to be meticulous about your oral care.
Finally, everyone should visit the dentist annually for a checkup, as a professional can spot issues you might miss.
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