More and more evidence points to the fact that your mouth holds the secret to your overall level of health.
You have probably heard of the mind-body connection, but how about the mouth-body connection? Also sometimes referred to as the oral-body health connection, research shows that the condition of your teeth and gums holds secrets to what is really happening inside your body. In fact your next visit to the dentist may speak volumes about your health and your well-being.
Open your mouth and allow it to reveal clues to what is working well and what could use a tune-up. Compare it to the workings of a car and it should be easy to comprehend.
Researchers have begun to zero in on the connection that exists between gum disease, cavities and heart disease. At the present time no link has been clearly established but studies are ongoing. There are diseases however that have been found to be associated with a higher than average risk of developing any number of infections. For example, loose teeth could be a symptom of osteoporosis while those who suffer from diabetes are more likely to experience gingival and periodontal infections and inflammation.
Let us take a closer look at what the mouth-body connection could mean for you …
Oral Health and Smoking
Here is a good place to start. If you think you can hide your smoking habit from your dentist then think again. Your yellow stained teeth will give you away immediately! Smokers are at a greater risk for any oral problem as compared to non-smokers. Tooth loss is the number one concern. Talk about a way to ruin a lovely smile! An estimated 41 percent of those over the age of 65 who smoke on a daily basis are toothless. Smoking can also lead to a greater level of calculus on the teeth. It can lead to mouth sores, deep pockets between the teeth and gums, loss of bone and tissue and the risk of oral cancer.
Oral Heath and Diabetes
Diabetes is the one disease that the medical community is well aware can affect the condition of the bones and gums that surround the teeth. This is because of blood sugar. If your blood sugar level is not being controlled in the body then it will also be out of whack in your mouth. Bacteria in the mouth feed on the sugar and then attack the enamel that protects the teeth. Over time this can wear down the teeth and make them more susceptible to cavities.
Diabetes that is out of control can weaken the body’s ability to fight off infection with its white blood cells which can then make your oral health problematic. High blood sugar levels lead to higher than average levels of bacteria which can open the door wide to gum disease or periodontal disease.
Individuals with diabetes need to work closely with their dentist to ensure the best oral health possible. They also need to do their part at home to take care of their teeth and gums by brushing and flossing regularly.
Continue on to part two of this post to learn more about the mouth-body connection.
Samantha
Alternative Health for Today 