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Researchers are giving us another reason to brush and floss regularly. Problems in your mouth can affect the rest of your body, further proving the importance of maintaining proper oral hygiene. Your teeth and gums speak volumes about your overall well-being. Good oral hygiene can help prevent an array of oral problems such as bad breath, tooth decay and gum disease. Not only does proper oral hygiene protect your mouth against oral problems, it can also be directly related to your overall health. If you understand the importance of your oral health, you can recognize its connection to your total body health. The Connection Between Oral and Overall Health General health starts with optimal oral health. Failure to care for your teeth, gums and bite can result in the development of medical conditions that are far more serious than gum disease (periodontitis) or tooth loss. Certain medical conditions of the body have early oral manifestations, such as: * Diabetes
* Cardiovascular Diseases
* Heart disease
* Pancreatic cancer One of the main connections between oral health and systemic health is with the health of your heart. Chronic gum disease can lead to the development of heart disease because your mouth is the pathway for damaging organisms to the rest of your body. Studies show that oral health can provide warning signs for other diseases or conditions, including heart disease, and it can be identified through a visit to your dentist. Diabetes and Your Oral Health Bleeding gums, dry mouth, fungal infections and cavities are all signs that might be a clue as to a serious health issue: diabetes. Studies show that diabetics are more susceptible to the development of oral infections and periodontal disease because they may experience diminished salivary flow and a burning sensation of the mouth or tongue which can lead to a higher incidence of tooth decay. If you are a diabetic it is important to control your blood sugar levels, otherwise there is a tendency for increased oral health problems, especially gum and bone disease. Diabetics who receive proper dental care also show better control of their blood sugar. Over time, this decreases the cumulative damage from blood sugar to the organs and blood vessels. Brush up on Dental Care Basics and Protect Your Smile If you find yourself tempted to skip brushing or flossing your teeth, remember that your smile depends on these simple dental care habits. Oral health begins with clean teeth. According to the American Dental Association and Dr. Barnes, you should follow these basics for dental health: * Brush your teeth at least twice a day
* Stay constant and consistent with flossing
* Avoid carbonated drinks; they cause decay
* Use toothpicks if you can't floss In addition to daily brushing and flossing, you can use an antiseptic mouth rinse to help reduce plaque between your teeth. It is important to schedule regular dental cleanings and exams twice a year for early detection of periodontal disease, decay, or other dental infections. Visiting Dr. Mark Barnes in Boulder regularly helps maintain the health of your mouth and allows him to watch for unusual developments that may point to other health issues. Don't hesitate. Maintain your regular cleanings with Dr. Mark Barnes to maintain optimal oral health, as well as overall health.
Dr. Mark Barnes, Boulder, CO dentist, has been practicing dental health care for 24 years with an emphasis on personalized attention for general family dentistry, treatments for TMJ, headaches and sleep apnea and snoring. Dr. Barnes, Boulder family dentist, also offers sedation for anxiety.
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