- Conditions that may lead to poor oral health
The relationship between your oral health and general health is reciprocal. There are various conditions in your body that can affect your oral health. For instance, diabetes affects your body’s immune system making it harder to resist infections. People with diabetes are, consequently, more prone to gum disease.
Victims of HIV/AIDS are more prone to oral infections like painful mucosal lesions.
Osteoporosis is a disease that weakens the bones hence its link to tooth loss. Patients also risk damaging their jawbones when they take drugs to treat the disease. Other diseases and conditions that may affect your oral health include cancers of the head and neck, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer’s and eating disorders.
Practicing dental care is more important than you may have assumed. You’re not just preventing cavities and bad breath; your oral health may have a direct impact on your overall health. You should, therefore, adopt good oral hygiene practices including brushing your teeth regularly.
The American Dental Association recommends that you brush twice a day. Flossing is also another important practice that many tend to ignore. It helps in removing food particles that regular brushing may miss. Additionally, regular visits to the dentist are also recommended.
