The mouth is both the primary entry point to our digestive and respiratory systems, as well as an ideal environment for bacteria to grow. Normally, the body’s natural defenses and good oral health care keep bacteria at bay. But, if this balance is disrupted, bacteria can multiply and enter the bloodstream, and travel to other areas of the body where they can cause disease. For example, gum disease has been linked to heart disease and diabetes. It is also a risk factor for osteoporosis and respiratory ailments.
In addition, if untreated, tooth decay can lead to a variety of other problems, such as loss of appetite and decreased focus. Moreover, the pain and discomfort associated with oral health issues can have negative effects on an individual’s quality of life and self-esteem.
Interestingly, a growing body of research is uncovering new connections between oral health and other serious diseases affecting millions of people. These connections may offer clues to better treatment and lessen the burden of these conditions.
Oral health is multifaceted and includes the ability to smell, touch, taste, chew, swallow, speak and convey a range of emotions through facial expressions with comfort and confidence. It is the foundation for eating, drinking, breathing, and social interaction.
It also offers clues to the state of the rest of the body. The mouth is like a window or portal to an individual’s overall physical health, and poor dental hygiene can be linked to critical illnesses such as heart disease. In fact, a 2017 study by Western Sydney University found that those with heart disease report having poorer oral health than the general population.
Currently, there is no model of integrated health that integrates the mouth within other levels for the achievement of wellness. This gap is largely the result of a longstanding separation of the health sciences and dentistry, as well as between healthcare professionals, policymakers and public policies.
In turn, this disconnect has contributed to a perception that oral health is less important than other forms of healthcare. This view, which is widespread in many countries, has resulted in oral health being marginalized and neglected in multiple ways.
For instance, people with low socioeconomic status are more likely to experience oral health problems and have a harder time accessing professional dental services. This is exacerbated by the fact that these groups tend to have more unhealthy lifestyles, which are further influenced by limited resources and poor education.
This is why we must address these disparities in our efforts to promote and protect good oral health. By improving access to dental care, increasing awareness about the relationship between oral health and wellness, and incorporating the mouth into other levels of an individual’s wellness, we can begin to close the gap and realize the benefits of good oral health. The best way to achieve this is by supporting World Oral Health Day and practicing the ABCs of good oral health: brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, avoiding tobacco products, eating a nutritious diet and getting regular dental checkups. For more details ask Karen Rosen the no. 1 dentist in Torrance.