Healthy Teeth – Healthy You 

By Lisa Owens 

Ever since you were a kid you’ve been taught the importance of brushing your teeth two or three times a day, and flossing at least once a day. You know that keeping your teeth clean will prevent gingivitis, gum disease, cavities, plaque build-up, and unnecessary dental bills. However, what most people don’t know is that keeping your mouth clean may also play a role in preventing cardiovascular disease, and other systemic diseases¹.

 Every mouth contains bacteria, but that bacteria is usually kept in check with good oral hygiene. That bacteria can get out of control if oral hygiene is slacking, and a gum infection known as Periodontitis can form³. Periodontitis is an advanced form of gum disease, and this infection opens up a door for bacteria to get from your mouth into your bloodstream. Some researchers believe this may be a factor in many other health problems. These health problems include diabetes, heart disease, stroke, bacterial pneumonia, and low-birth weight babies². Bad oral health can also impair the body’s ability to chew and digest food, and this can lead to digestive problems. The research has only been able to show that Periodontitis is linked to other health problems, and there is no evidence that one causes the other^3,4. However, that is no reason to ignore the link between oral hygiene, and overall health. Good oral hygiene will help keep Periodontitis and other oral problems away, which in turn may keep your risk for diabetes and heart disease down.

So now that you know the risks what more can you do beyond regular brushing and flossing? The Mayo Clinic has a few recommendations to help¹.

1. Brush your teeth twice a day.

2. Use a toothpaste with Fluoride.

3. Eat a Balanced Diet.

4. Visit the dentist twice a year.

5. Tell your dentist about any health issues, such as Diabetes, that you may have.

Notes:

2. ADA. “Oral-Systemic Health (Your Oral Health and Overall Health).” American Dental Association. http://www.ada.org/public/topics/oralsystemic_gumdisease.asp.

4. Health Canada. “The Effects of Oral Health on Overall Health.” Health Canada – Healthy Living. http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hl-vs/iyh-vsv/life-vie/dent-eng.php.