Why Is Dental Health Important?
- Written by Ester Adams
Mulgrave is one of the suburbs in Melbourne, Australia. Their local government is situated in the city of Monash. The name Mulgrave is derived from Mulgrave Castle, which is located in the County of York. It has a population of more than 19,000 as of 2016. A good number of Mulgrave residents are now employed in the health sector. To provide their clients with the best service, these health workers must, first of all, ensure that they are in good health.
Do you know that your overall health can be greatly affected by your dental health? Fortunately, finding an experienced dentist in Mulgrave is not much of a problem. An experienced dental expert can help you in achieving better teeth and gum health.
The Connection Between Your Dental Health and Your Overall Health
You might not realise it, but your dental health is important. The health of your teeth, gums, and mouth has a great impact on your overall health. Do you know that your oral health provides indications about your general health? If you have problems in your mouth, then it can likely affect the rest of your body. The best way to protect yourself is to learn more about the relationship between your dental health and general health.
Like any other areas in your body, your mouth is filled with bacteria. But don’t worry, most of these bacteria are harmless. However, keep in mind that the mouth has a direct connection to your digestive and respiratory system. Also, some of these bacteria could likely cause disease.
Generally, the natural defences of your body keep these bacteria under control. At the same time, you should also practice good dental health care, such as frequent brushing and flossing. Without proper dental hygiene, bacteria can population reaches a point where it can lead to gum disease and tooth decay.
Additionally, some medications, including painkillers, antidepressants, antihistamines, decongestants, and diuretics, can likely cause a reduction in your saliva flow, and this can also be a problem. Remember that saliva is responsible for washing away your food and neutralising the acids generated by the bacteria in your mouth.
Based on some studies, the bacteria in your mouth and the inflammation caused by severe gum disease (Periodontitis) might cause some diseases. Also, some diseases, including diabetes and HIV/AIDS, can reduce your body’s resistance to infection and thus, your dental health problems will become more severe.
What Conditions Can be Associated with Dental Health?
Dentists can help you prevent diseases that are associated with your oral health. Your dental health could likely contribute to various diseases and health conditions, such as:
1. Cardiovascular Disease
Some research shows that stroke, heart diseases, and clogged arteries could likely be connected to the inflammation and infections caused by oral bacteria.
2. Endocarditis
This disease occurs when you contract an infection in your heart chambers or valves’ inner lining, also known as endocardium. Generally, this happens when the bacteria and other types of germs from various parts of your body, including your mouth, escalate through your bloodstream and affix in parts of your heart.
3. Pneumonia
There are instances in which some bacteria in the mouth are dragged into the lungs, resulting in pneumonia and other forms of respiratory diseases.
4. Pregnancy and Birth Complications
Some research suggests that periodontitis has been associated with low birth weight and premature birth.
Practising oral hygiene every day is the best way of obtaining good dental health. In case you encounter any oral health problems, contact your dentist right away. If you don’t have a dentist at your disposal yet, you don’t have to worry. You can easily find a well-experienced dentist in Mulgrave by simply searching on the internet. By taking care of your dental health, you are also taking good care of your overall health.