Make your oral health a priority

It’s tempting to think of each body part as somehow separate from all the others, but the truth is that they are all connected and problems in one part of the body can lead to problems in other parts.

The mouth is no exception. We breathe through it, so it is directly connected to the lungs and through them to the bloodstream and therefore to every other part of the body. We also use our mouths for eating and so there is a direct connection to the digestive system and from there to a lot of organs as well as, once again, to the bloodstream.

Oral Health in LoughtonNo wonder then that various diseases are directly linked to our oral health. Having a healthy mouth can make so much difference to our overall health.

Oral health problems

The main culprit when it comes to oral health issues is bacterial plaque. This is that sticky layer of white stuff that builds up on the surfaces of the teeth and soft tissue throughout the day.

Plaque doesn’t look so good but that’s not the main problem with it. The main problem is that the bacteria that make it up give off acids when they feed. These acids eat away at our tooth enamel to cause decay. They also irritate and inflame our gums, before getting under them to attack our tooth roots and jawbones.

Both problems can result in tooth loss, but they also have direct links to diabetes, heart disease and osteoporosis, with these diseases affecting oral health and vice versa. Researchers are also investigating links with rheumatoid arthritis, lung diseases and obesity.

Keeping your mouth healthy

The basics are your responsibility. You need to brush your teeth twice a day for 2 minutes with a fluoride toothpaste. You also need to floss or use interdental brushes to remove plaque and trapped food from between the teeth. Getting to a dental check-up with us at Forest Dental is also a vital part of your oral health in Loughton. We can spot problems long before you are aware of them, and our hygienists can remove plaque that has hardened into calculus.