Dry Mouth
As many as 65 percent of people experience dry mouth. It’s not just uncomfortable; it can make it difficult to taste, chew, swallow, and speak.
Bad Breath
Anywhere from 22 to 50 percent of the population has bad breath. It can negatively impact your relationships and cause depression, and anxiety.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is an infection of the gums. It impacts nearly half of people older than 30, as well as 70 percent of people older than 65.
Mouth Sores
Recurring mouth sores are one of the most common oral ailments worldwide, impacting 20 to 25 percent of the overall population.
How does oral health affect overall health?
Your mouth plays an essential role in your digestive, respiratory, endocrine, nervous, and immune systems, so it’s not surprising that your oral health can affect the general health of your body.
While it’s difficult to pinpoint causation, researchers have linked oral microorganisms with many systemic disorders, including cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, and kidney diseases as well as diabetes. Moreover, research suggests gum disease is a risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes, including premature labor and delivering a low-weight infant.
How to improve oral health…
The following practices can help you maintain optimal oral health:
- Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
- Brush your teeth twice a day to remove the buildup of dental plaque, a colorless film of bacteria. Brush for two minutes each time, and make sure you clean all sides of your teeth.
- Use dental floss to remove the debris between your teeth at least once a day.
- Rinse your mouth daily with an alcohol-free rinse.
- Avoid using tobacco products, which can negatively affect your dental health.
- Learn how to prevent dry mouth. Your saliva helps maintain the health of your teeth and gums.
- Visit your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups.
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