If you think about it, it makes perfect sense: poor oral health is
linked to poor physical health. How so? Well, consider the big picture:
your mouth is the gateway into the rest of the body and its systems.
If the mouth has a chronic infection or disease, then your entire body
may be indirectly or directly exposed to those bacteria. Not to mention
your ability to eat is compromised and also your nutrition. Furthermore,
the resources needed for your general health to function will be diverted
to handle the chronic infection, weakening the overall natural protection
your other systems typically enjoy. Research documents connections between
gum disease and poor heart health, resulting in increased risk of stroke,
as well as diabetes, problem pregnancies, respiratory diseases and osteoporosis
in women. What's more, some studies indicate that those who lose all
their natural teeth may have a much shorter life span.
So what's the answer? If you want to up your odds of a happy, healthy
life, treat your body with respect and put your money (and effort) where
your mouth is. Try starting with the basics: learn the latest tips, techniques
and tools for top notch oral hygiene, when you are here for you next
cleaning appointment. Then, branch out: incorporate a healthy diet, exercise,
fresh air, and regular rest. Eliminate unhealthy habits that are counterproductive.
And remember, taking care of your teeth means better well-being, and
it means your body will be better able to take care of itself.
What do powdered fruit, talc, honey, dried
flowers, mice and lizard livers have in common? They have all
been ingredients in ancient toothpaste and powder. Yum.
Attention Chocolate Lovers…Many dentists
agree raisins can cause more tooth decay than chocolate. Sticky
foods such as raisins and dried fruits can stay on the teeth
longer and develop more decay.
According to a study at the University of
Connecticut, too much toothpaste early in life is responsible
for more than 70% of fluorosis cases (staining or mottling of
tooth enamel that develops when children swallow fluoridated
toothpaste). Although this problem is only cosmetic, it is recommended
children under six only use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste
and be reminded to spit it out after brushing.
If you think about it, it makes perfect sense: poor oral health is
linked to poor physical health. How so? Well, consider the big picture:
your mouth is the gateway into the rest of the body and its systems.
If the mouth has a chronic infection or disease, then your entire body
may be indirectly or directly exposed to those bacteria. Not to mention
your ability to eat is compromised and also your nutrition. Furthermore,
the resources needed for your general health to function will be diverted
to handle the chronic infection, weakening the overall natural protection
your other systems typically enjoy. Research documents connections between
gum disease and poor heart health, resulting in increased risk of stroke,
as well as diabetes, problem pregnancies, respiratory diseases and osteoporosis
in women. What's more, some studies indicate that those who lose all
their natural teeth may have a much shorter life span.