The human mouth contains many important structures that help us speak, breathe, and give us a way to eat and enjoy food. While oral health is not a substitute for general physical health, it should be noted that certain health problems can affect the oral cavity. This is why it is important to see your dentist at least once a year.
One might agree that visiting a dentist isn’t the most enjoyable way to spend a Saturday. However, seeing your dentist each year can give you peace of mind and ensure that all is well with your oral health.
How Physical Health Have an Impact on Oral Health
- An oral health problem can be extremely uncomfortable, let alone the damage it can do to your health. The truth is that oral health is linked to physical health and well-being: when your mouth is in good shape, it means your body is too. Good oral health is beneficial for your heart, teeth and gums, respiratory system, and quality of life.
- Your oral health can have a profound impact on your physical health. For example, controlling gum disease is essential for preventing heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and more.
- Being physically fit is essential for oral health and general well-being. If you are overweight, you are more likely to suffer from periodontal disease, which can lead to gum disease. If you are obese, your risk of gum disease is even greater. A healthy diet will help to maintain your weight and prevent gum disease.
- Your oral health is an extension of your overall health. This means your dental health can be impacted by a wide range of factors, including weight, age, and diet. For example, if you are overweight, your risk of developing periodontal disease increases significantly. Other risk factors may include smoking and consuming alcohol.
When you are physically healthy, you can take better care of your teeth. The basics of healthy teeth are not too complicated and can be broken into a few key points.
For example, maintaining regular dental visits is important for staying on top of oral health. You should also brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once a day.
Having good oral health is inextricably connected to having good overall health. People with chronic health conditions, like diabetes and cardiovascular disease, commonly experience dental health issues. This is because gum disease can be a symptom of a more serious, underlying issue.
This doesn’t mean oral health problems are always the result of a poor diet, but this is particularly common for seniors and older adults. So, it is essential to take care of your oral health and schedule regular visits with a dentist near you.