Yesterday I said the Mayo Clinic made a link between oral hygiene and health so I need to expand on that idea. Certain medications — such as decongestants, antihistamines,
painkillers, diuretics and antidepressants — can reduce saliva flow. Saliva
washes away food and neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth,
helping to protect you from microbes that multiply and lead to disease.
Studies suggest that oral bacteria and the inflammation associated with
a severe form of gum disease (periodontitis) might play a role in some
diseases. And certain diseases, such as diabetes and HIV/AIDS, can lower the
body's resistance to infection, making oral health problems more severe.
Your oral health might contribute to various diseases and conditions,
including:
·
Endocarditis. This
infection of the inner lining of your heart chambers or valves (endocardium)
typically occurs when bacteria or other germs from another part of your body,
such as your mouth, spread through your bloodstream and attach to certain areas
in your heart.
·
Cardiovascular disease. Although
the connection is not fully understood, some research suggests that heart
disease, clogged arteries and stroke might be linked to the inflammation and
infections that oral bacteria can cause.
·
Pregnancy and birth complications. Periodontitis
has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.
·
Pneumonia. Certain
bacteria in your mouth can be pulled into your lungs, causing pneumonia and
other respiratory diseases.
Certain conditions also might affect your oral health, including:
·
Diabetes. By reducing
the body's resistance to infection, diabetes puts your gums at risk. Gum
disease appears to be more frequent and severe among people who have diabetes.
·
Research shows that people who have gum disease
have a harder time controlling their blood sugar levels. Regular periodontal
care can improve diabetes control.
·
HIV/AIDS. Oral
problems, such as painful mucosal lesions, are common in people who have
HIV/AIDS.
·
Osteoporosis. This
bone-weakening disease is linked with periodontal bone loss and tooth loss.
Certain drugs used to treat osteoporosis carry a small risk of damage to the
bones of the jaw.
·
Alzheimer's disease. Worsening
oral health is seen as Alzheimer's disease progresses.
Other conditions that might be linked to oral health include eating
disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, certain cancers and an immune system disorder
that causes dry mouth (Sjogren's syndrome).
Tell your dentist about the medications you take and about changes in
your overall health, especially if you've recently been ill or you have chronic conditions, such as diabetes.
Oral health for everyone is more important
than most people may realize. The risk factors of osteoporosis, diabetes, heart
disease and pneumonia also increase as we age, simply because we…age.
Adding
poor oral health to the mix just increases the chances more, so upping your
toothbrushing, flossing game should be a priority.
No comments:
Post a Comment