The relationship between oral health and general health is very strong and interrelated. Good oral health contributes to maintaining the overall health of the body and vice versa. Here are some points that illustrate this relationship:
Chronic diseases: there is a link between oral diseases, such as gingivitis and heart disease, and diabetes. Bacteria in the mouth can get into the bloodstream and lead to infections that affect vital organs.
Gingivitis: chronic gum infections can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Chronic inflammation may contribute to atherosclerosis, which increases the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes.
Diabetes: people with diabetes are more prone to gum disease, and these diseases make it difficult to control blood sugar levels, which aggravates diabetes.
Breathing problems: oral bacteria can migrate to the lungs, which can cause respiratory infections such as pneumonia, especially in people with immune system problems or the elderly.
Pregnancy health: pregnant women with periodontal disease have a higher risk of premature birth and having babies with low weight.
Nutrition: oral problems such as tooth loss can affect a person’s ability to eat healthy food, negatively affecting overall health.
Therefore, taking care of oral and dental health is an integral part of taking care of oral health
The relationship between oral health and general health is shown in many other aspects:
Infectious diseases: the mouth can be a source of infection that can be transmitted to other parts of the body. Oral bacteria may cause infections in the tissues surrounding the heart (endocarditis).
Immune system: good oral health enhances the function of the immune system, as chronic oral infections can negatively affect the efficiency of the immune system in resisting diseases.
Digestive system: the mouth is the entrance to the digestive system, and any problems in the mouth can affect the digestion process and the absorption of necessary nutrients.
Brain health: some studies suggest a link between gum disease and a higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Chronic infections may affect long-term brain health.
Cancer: poor oral health and increased chronic inflammation can increase the risk of some cancers, such as mouth and throat cancer.
Psychosocial impact: oral health also affects psychosocial health. Oral problems can lead to a loss of self-confidence and social isolation, which negatively affects overall health.
Improving oral health can lead to an overall improvement in overall health and quality of life. It is important that preventive health care includes regular oral health care to prevent the occurrence of problems that may affect the body as a whole.
Of course, there are other aspects of the relationship of oral health with public health:
Digestion and dental health: healthy teeth help to chew food effectively, which contributes to better digestion. The inability to chew food well due to dental problems can lead to digestive problems.
Gum and bone health: gum disease can lead to bone loss around the teeth, and this may also affect bones elsewhere in the body. Chronic infections in the mouth may contribute to overall bone weakness.
Effects on sleep quality: problems such as sleep apnea, which may be related to oral problems such as bruxism, can affect sleep quality and overall health.
Pregnancy and oral health: pregnant women who experience oral problems may experience complications during pregnancy, such as gingivitis which can affect pregnancy health.
Eating disorders: tooth loss or toothache can lead to changes in diet, such as eating only soft foods, which can affect the balance of nutrients and body health.
Effects on pronunciation and communication: oral problems may affect the ability to pronounce correctly, which may affect social communication and interpersonal relationships.
Oral health care goes beyond just maintaining healthy teeth, it is an essential part of overall health care
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