Good Oral Health Is Important For Overall Health
October 27, 2022
Good oral health is more important to overall health than it may seem. Studies have linked health of gums, teeth and mouth to illnesses like heart disease and diabetes.
“Oral health is related to overall health and can cause problems when it is not watched,” says Dr. Fonda Strickland, clinical dental director at BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina.
Teeth, gums, the tongue and other soft tissues in the mouth are related to the bloodstream. Good oral health helps balance the good and bad bacteria in the body. Infection in the gums around your teeth and in your bones can affect the immune system and other areas of the body.
“Preventive care should be the main focus,” Strickland says. “Without proper care, you are at risk of many oral diseases. These can include cavities, gingivitis and other forms of gum disease.”
Visit a dentist twice a year for X-rays and clinical images. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says to brush teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss to remove plaque. Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and keep your breath fresh.
For good oral health:
Drink fluoridated water.
Do not use tobacco products.
Limit drinks with alcohol.
Rethink beverages with sugar.
People with diabetes should manage the disease to lower the risk for other problems, such as gum disease. Treating gum disease may lower blood sugar levels, according to the CDC.
Eating different kinds of nutritious foods helps with healthy teeth and gums. Eat calcium-rich foods, such as low-fat milk, yogurt and cheese. Minerals found in eggs, fish, lean meat, diary and nuts can also be good for teeth. Vitamin C is good for the gums. It is in citrus fruits, tomatoes, peppers, broccoli, potatoes and spinach.
“Visit your dentist before the year end. Take a loved one with you,” Strickland says. “Ask for preventive screenings and take advantage of all the tools and services that are available to you.”
Talk to your dentist about the best care for you and those you love.
Rethink drinks: https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/healthy_eating/drinks.html
Healthy foods; https://www.eatright.org/food/vitamins-and-supplements/nutrient-rich-foods/healthy-nutrition-for-healthy-teeth
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