Did you know that more than 6
million bacteria are present inside your mouth? Most of the bacteria in
the mouth are harmless. However, harmful bacteria can sometimes grow out of control and
cause oral infection and lead to tooth decay, gingivitis, heart disease and kidney disease.
In
addition, dental procedures, medications, or treatments that reduce saliva
flow, disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in
your mouth or breach the mouth's normal protective barriers may make it easier
for bacteria to enter your bloodstream.
Ø Bad oral health is linked to an increase risk of the heart disease. The relative risk of the cardiovascular disease is doubled
in people with periodontal disease. This occurs when microorganisms that cause oral
infections infect blood vessels that can result in inflammation and injury and
lead to the build up of atherosclerotic plaques in blood vessels.
Ø Untreated gum disease can lead to the loss of teeth
and an increased risk of more serious diseases, such as respiratory disease. The bacteria in plaque can travel from the mouth to the lungs,
causing infection or aggravating existing lung conditions.
Ø Sugar promotes growth of bacteria and plaque. There is
also a link between diabetes
and gum disease. People with diabetes
are more susceptible to gum disease and it can put them at greater risk of diabetic complications. The presence of gum disease also increases the
difficulty of achieving blood glucose control in people who have diabetes.
Ø Pregnancy and birth. Gum disease has been linked
to premature birth and low birth weight.
Ø smoking is a risk factor for periodontal disease
Oral
health is not only important to your appearance and sense of well-being, but
also to your overall health. Your
oral health may affect, be affected by or contribute to various diseases and
conditions. Understand the
intimate connection between oral health and overall health and what you can do
to protect yourself.
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