Dental Links to Health

There are many dental links to health. Your mouth is the gateway to your body.  Good oral health is not really an option, but rather an important, integral aspect of overall health.  The purpose of this blog is to provide you with 5 conditions and risk factors that you must consider when evaluating your own oral health. Understanding these conditions will allow you to become proactive in making a positive impact on your dental systemic health and well-being. So, let’s take a look at some of these conditions or risk factors.

1) Systemic Conditions  

Your general health affects your oral health. Your mouth is the entryway to your digestive and respiratory tract.  It is the first step in the digestive process providing your body with fuel and nourishment.  The oral cavity is also in close proximity to the brain, ears, nose and pituitary gland.  Infections can drain into lymph nodes under your jaw and down your neck. 

Conditions such as heart disease, thyroid problems and diabetes, to name but a few, can all have oral effects.  The mouth is a mirror to the health of the body.  Do you know that over 90% of systemic diseases have signs and symptoms in the mouth?

2) Medications and Medical Treatments

Medications can affect the entire body, including oral structures.  For example, certain drugs such as antidepressants can cause dry mouth which can lead to rampant tooth decay, periodontal disease and possible tooth loss.  Other medications can lead to uncontrolled bleeding during routine dental procedures, such as deep cleaning and extractions.

3) Your Own Dental Perspective

How do you feel about going to the dentist?  Are you so frightened that you don’t even go?   Going to the dentist only when you have an emergency can lead to additional trauma besides the potential for more pain and unfortunate tooth loss.  Changes in your point of view regarding dentistry can actually reduce your overall risk.

4) Your Own Personal Practices

Of course, your own particular hygiene habits have a great influence on your dental health.  Brushing and flossing is important, but what about other lifestyle choices.  Late nights, junk food, smoking, alcohol consumption and stress all affect your oral health.

5) Your Current Dental Status

The condition of your teeth and existing dental work greatly contributes to your overall dental health.  Have you decided not to continue with recommended treatment? How your teeth come together (the occlusion), missing teeth and even the dental materials used can be factors that can either positively or negatively impact your oral health.  Your digestion, immune system, and well-being are directly related to your existing dental health status.

So, there you have it.  5 conditions or risk factors that can affect your oral health. I hope you found this blog helpful in keeping your oral health in optimum shape. Be sure to visit our website, www.exploreholistic.com, to learn more about holistic dentistry along with other holistic health care options.  Check out the video below to help reduce YOUR fear of going to the dentist!