The devastating effects bad oral health can have on your general health

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by: Adam Wright
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Word Count: 410
Date: Sat, 5 Feb 2011 Time: 1:52 AM
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Numerous surveys and polls have showed that the majority of people do not consider their oral health to be as important as other areas of their health and as a consequence, oral health problems, especially decay, are very common. However, studies are consistently highlighting oral health as an important indicator of general health and many studies have now found that poor oral health can contribute to serious medical issues.

How does oral health contribute to medical problems?

Oral health is important because it provides a reflection of your general health; poor oral health often reflects poor oral health. Recently, a large number of studies have been conducted to determine the effects of poor oral health on general health and the results have been fairly shocking.

Numerous studies have found that oral health problems can contribute to an increased risk of serious health issues, including diabetes, heart disease and strokes. Many studies have found that harmful bacteria associated with gum disease can travel to other parts of the body via the bloodstream, which can increase the risk of a clot forming, which can trigger strokes and heart attacks.

Many studies have also found that poor oral health is very dangerous for pregnant women, as pregnant women are prone to developing gingivitis. However, if this is left untreated it can become more advanced and turn into periodontal disease. The bacteria associated with gum disease can get into the mother's bloodstream and then pass into the baby's bloodstream via the placenta; poor oral health can cause premature labour, complications during pregnancy and birth and even stillbirth.

Preventing oral health problems

Oral health problems are very common but they can often be prevented. Dentists recommend a good daily oral hygiene routine, which should include brushing the teeth twice a day for two minutes each time, using mouthwash and dental floss on a regular basis and attending routine check-ups at the dentist every six to twelve months. It is also important to eat a healthy and balanced diet. This is beneficial for both oral and general health, as the body needs to take in certain vitamins, minerals and nutrients to be able to function properly.

Dentists are urging people to attend regular check-ups. This enables them to keep an eye out for early warning signs of oral health problems, including tooth decay, gum disease and oral cancer.

About the Author

If you are worried about any dental condition, and believe it may be having an effect on your overall health, then it is advised you see a doctor or visit a Emergency dentist24 hours to discover the root cause of the problem.