Why is Oral Health Important?

Oral health isn’t just about having good-looking teeth or stopping a toothache. It goes beyond minor inconveniences and helps prevent diseases.

Maintaining good oral hygiene also helps prevent the need for complex and costly medical procedures in the future. Let’s examine why oral health is important.

6 Reasons Why Oral Health is Important

Your mouth and oral health are responsible for many essential functions. This includes eating, tasting, swallowing, speaking, and even smelling to some degree.

Aside from the health benefits, having good oral hygiene also helps protect your smile and boosts your confidence.

If that’s not enough for you, here are six more reasons why oral health is important: 

1. Oral Health and Nutritional Health

What you eat reflects your oral health and vice versa. For instance, eating too much sugar is associated with an increased risk of dental caries. 

Consuming too much acidic food and soft drinks is associated with an increased risk of enamel erosion. Additionally, you’ll have a higher risk of periodontal disease if you’re lacking in folic acid, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and E.

Studies show that the state of your oral health can affect the quality of food you consume. Partial or complete tooth loss is associated with poor dietary intake.

People suffering from tooth loss are more likely to eat foods rich in refined carbohydrates, sugar, and dietary cholesterol. This is linked to conditions like coronary heart disease and chronic kidney disease.

2. Periodontitis and Cardiovascular Disease

Periodontitis is a more serious form of gum disease that can develop from untreated gingivitis. It is linked to higher rates of cardiovascular disease.

Some studies show that an unhealthy diet and smoking are linked to cardiovascular disease. However, others are beginning to suspect periodontitis as an independent risk factor for heart disease.

They believe that periodontitis increases body inflammation, contributing to long-term inflammation. Chronic inflammation can eventually lead to conditions like cardiovascular disease.

3. Periodontitis and Alzheimer’s Disease

Researchers from the UIC College of Dentistry found that exposure to bacteria associated with periodontal disease in mice led to neuroinflammation, neurodegeneration, and the formation of senile plaques.

These symptoms are similar to those found in people with Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). The study suggests that chronic oral bacterial infections, such as periodontitis, may influence the development of Sporadic AD.

Another study found that the inflammation caused by periodontitis triggers a secondary inflammatory response, which may contribute to the progression of AD. However, more research is needed to determine if there’s a direct relationship between the two conditions.

4. Gum Disease Affects Diabetes

People with type II diabetes are three times more likely to develop dental problems than non-diabetic people. This is due to excess sugar in the blood, leading to excess sugar in the saliva.

This creates the perfect breeding ground for plaque and bacteria. Additionally, periodontitis can impair glycemic control, which refers to the management of blood sugar levels in a person with diabetes.

Studies also found that the severity of other symptoms of diabetes is correlated with the severity of periodontitis. These symptoms include:

• Retinopathy (retina disease)
• Diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage)
• Proteinuria (high protein levels in urine)
• Cardiovascular complications

5. Poorer Quality of Life 

Many oral conditions affect both children and adults. Some conditions are minor, while others can result in more serious oral health complications over time.

Common oral conditions include, but are not limited to:

• Bruxism
• Bad breath
• Dry mouth
• Toothaches
• Cracked teeth
• Tooth sensitivity
• Temporomandibular joint dysfunction
• Mouth breathing
• Gum recession
• Burning mouth
• Gingival hyperplasia

6. Long-Term Dental Problems

If left untreated, some diseases can lead to tooth loss or permanent damage to the teeth and surrounding structures.

Common oral diseases include, but are not limited to:

• Gingivitis
• Periodontal disease
• Cavities
• Oral thrush
• Canker sores
• Dental abscess
• Oral cancer

How to Take Care of Your Teeth

There are plenty of ways to take care of your teeth. Visiting your dentist and getting regular teeth cleanings is essential for maintaining oral health. 

Additionally, having a healthy diet is essential for maintaining healthy teeth. However, the most important part is brushing and flossing your teeth regularly.

Here’s what a good dental care routine looks like:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day
• Brush your teeth for 2 minutes
• Use fluoride toothpaste
• Floss properly to prevent cavities and remove food particles from your mouth
• Rinse with fluoridated water to help strengthen your enamel
• Use mouthwash

Dental Care Treatment Options

Depending on your needs and the severity of your oral condition or disease, you can receive care from the following:

• General dentists provide preventive procedures and treatments
• Specialists include dental surgeons, endodontists, and periodontists
• Pediatric dentists treat babies, children, and adolescents
• Orthodontists specialize in teeth straightening
• Cosmetic dentists improve people’s smiles through teeth whitening, veneers, etc.

Listen In Q&A Format

Why is Oral Health Important?

NewMouth Podcast

When To See a Dentist

A good oral hygiene routine helps reduce the likelihood of getting oral health problems, but it’s not guaranteed. Because of this, knowing when you need dental treatment is essential.

Here are some signs that you need to see a dentist:

• Red, bleeding, or swollen gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Increased sensitivity to cold, hot, or sweet foods and drinks
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Problems with chewing
• White spots on teeth
• Frequent toothaches.