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Your oral health is more than just a matter of appearance and well-being—it profoundly affects your overall health. Dental issues such as cavities and gum disease can contribute to serious medical conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, respiratory diseases, and complications during pregnancy. Untreated dental problems can cause pain and lead to severe infections, making the importance of oral health clear.
Maintaining good oral health involves preventing cavities and gum disease, conditions that can have a far-reaching impact. Poor oral health can affect your self-esteem, sleep quality, and even contribute to behavioral and developmental issues in children. It can also hinder your ability to chew food properly, potentially impacting your digestion.
Proper nutrition plays a vital role in building strong teeth and gums, making it crucial for overall oral health.
It's essential to recognize that smoking is a major risk factor for oral and dental diseases, including oral cancer. Tobacco use reduces blood flow to the gums, depriving them of the oxygen and nutrients they need to remain healthy and resist bacterial infections.
Oral health should be a lifelong priority, especially as older adults and seniors retain their natural teeth longer. However, older individuals may face barriers to accessing dental care due to lower incomes and lack of dental insurance.
Seniors living in long-term care facilities are particularly vulnerable to complications arising from poor oral health due to frailty, overall health issues, and increased dependence on caregivers. In many cases, oral health problems among residents go unnoticed until they manifest as acute symptoms like pain or infection.
Beyond discomfort, poor oral health can contribute to a range of serious health issues.
Gum disease, characterized by inflammation of the gums and potential damage to the supporting bone structure of teeth, is a significant concern. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, continuously accumulates on teeth and can harden into tartar if not removed through regular brushing and flossing. Left untreated, gum disease can result in tooth loss and an elevated risk of severe diseases, including heart disease and stroke. The bacteria in plaque can enter the bloodstream, potentially leading to artery blockages and heart valve damage. The same bacteria may also reach the lungs, causing or exacerbating lung infections and conditions.
Furthermore, there is a notable connection between diabetes and gum disease. People with diabetes are more susceptible to gum disease, which can increase their risk of diabetic complications.
Oral health is of particular importance for pregnant women. Studies suggest that expectant mothers with gum disease might face a higher risk of delivering pre-term, low birth weight babies compared to those without gum disease. Premature or underweight infants are at an elevated risk of developmental complications, asthma, ear infections, birth defects, behavioral challenges, and even infant mortality.
To maintain excellent oral health and mitigate these risks, follow these guidelines:
Your oral health is intricately connected to your overall well-being, making proactive measures essential. If you have concerns or require professional guidance, don't hesitate to contact Bonavista Dental Centre at (613) 232-2659 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Andreea Birsila. Our conveniently located practice at Suite 1460, 220 Laurier Avenue W in Ottawa, ON is here to support your oral health journey and overall health.
