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Research suggests that oral health is the window to your physical health. The connection between the two can be seen with common dental problems such as gum disease, tooth decay and dry mouth, which can signal underlying health concerns. Read on to find out how to balance your oral and physical health.

Health Conditions Linked to Oral Hygiene

Diabetes

High blood sugar can make it a challenge to keep your mouth healthy. If you have diabetes, you should ensure you take better care of your oral health to reduce the potential risk of severe gum disease. This condition can weaken your white blood cells and make it harder for your body to fight infections that affect your gums.

Cardiovascular Disease

Did you know that gum disease increases the likelihood of heart disease? The bacteria in your mouth can spread into your bloodstream and infect your heart. Any bacteria that progress to your heart can attach itself to the damaged walls or valves to cause inflammation that can worsen your heart condition.

Osteoporosis

The older you get, the more concerned you will be about various health problems, such as losing bone density and mass. Osteoporosis is a health condition that can lead to weakened bones and increases your risk of fractures. Even though it doesn’t directly affect the composition of your teeth, it can impact your jaw and how your teeth are held in place, leading to tooth loss if left untreated.

Respiratory Diseases

Research suggests that oral health can affect your lungs. Harmful bacteria can spread from your mouth to surrounding lung tissue, which can cause or worsen underlying respiratory diseases if you have asthma, bronchitis, or pneumonia. Studies suggest that improving your oral care routine can help reduce the risk of dental cavities associated with a higher chance of aspiration pneumonia.

Pregnancy and Birth Complications

While the thought of carrying your unborn child is exciting and filled with numerous pleasant memories, it’s crucial to note that pregnancy can lead to poor oral care that can affect your overall health. Studies estimate that nearly 70% of pregnant women face challenges associated with gum disease. Most importantly, when left untreated, severe gum disease can increase the likelihood of premature births, pre-eclampsia, and low birth weight.

Stress

Stress occurs throughout life. Without practical stress management tools, you can become vulnerable to various factors affecting your oral health. For instance, it’s not unusual to clench your jaws, leading to unnecessary pressure on your teeth and the risk of grinding them while sleeping.

Tips to Improve Your Oral Health at Home

Maintaining healthy teeth can take a lifetime of routine and care. Daily, you should focus on the proper steps to prevent problems by combining the right oral care products and improving lifestyle habits. You should consider these tips if you want to improve your oral health from the comfort of your home:

• Ensure you brush your teeth twice daily to eliminate plaque-causing bacteria that can accumulate throughout the day.
• Brush your teeth properly by using gentle and circular movements to remove plaque in hidden places.
• Ensure you don’t neglect your tongue.
• Choose a fluoride toothpaste to help strengthen your tooth enamel and reduce tooth decay risks.
• Include flossing in your daily routine.
• Consider mouthwash to minimise acid buildup and to remineralise your teeth.
• Drink water to remove food particles that can lead to plaque buildup and cavities.
• Reduce your intake of acidic and sugary foods by focusing on a balanced and nutrient-dense diet.

In summary, ensuring optimal physical health starts with your mouth. You should continue your oral care routine and visit your dentist for tips if oral conditions can affect your health. Your Affinity Dental plan provides benefits that make it easy to care for your oral and physical health.