San Clemente, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 06/23/2014 -- Fact: oral health gives one a glimpse of his overall health and problems that may arise in the mouth can affect the whole body. It is a must to have an in depth understanding on how oral health and overall health are connected to avoid serious health risks.

How is oral health connected with the body’s overall health?

A human mouth is teeming with bacteria – most of which are harmless. These can be easily controlled through the body’s natural defenses and a good oral hygiene like regular brushing and flossing. Though, the absence of proper oral health care, bacteria can reach to levels that may result to other serious oral infections like tooth decay gum disease.

Also, medications like diuretics, painkillers, antihistamines and decongestants can reduce the production of saliva. Saliva washes away food and stabilizes the bacteria’s production of acids in the mouth, giving the human body the protection against microbial invasion or overgrowth that may lead to other health risks.

Studies suggest that oral bacteria and the swelling connected with periodontitis– a severe form of gum ailment – might be a catalyst for some other disease to arise. In addition, diseases like HIV/AIDS and diabetes lower the body’s tolerance resistance to infection, making oral health problems more severe.

Health risks that may be connected to oral health

One’s oral health may affect, be affected by, or may contribute to various health risks like endocarditis and cardiovascular diseases. Endcarditis is the infection of the inner lining of the heart caused by the spread of bacteria – like the ones in the mouth, in the bloodstream which sticks to the damaged areas of the heart. Osteoporosis, health condition that causes the bone to be brittle and weak is said to be connected with periodontal loss of bones and tooth loss. Tooth loss before reaching the age of 35 may be a risk factor of Alzheimer’s disease. Other health conditions that may be connected to oral health include Sjogren’s syndrome – an immune system disorder that causes dry mouth – and eating disorders.

Due to these potential connections, it is a must that patients tell their dentist if they are taking any medications or experience any changes in their overall health – especially if they’ve had any recent illnesses or have a chronic condition like diabetes.

It is a must to contact a San Clemente dentist as soon as possible when an oral health problem arises. Remember, it is an investment to overall health when one is taking care of his oral health.

About Dana Ghorab DDS, PC
Dr. Ghorab grew up overseas and moved to Arizona just before high school. She finished high school in Mesa, AZ and her family then moved to San Clemente, CA. Dr. Ghorab started her college education at Saddleback community College and then transferred to UCSD. She received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Animal Physiology and Neuroscience from the University of California in San Diego. She then moved to New York and obtained her Doctor of Dental Surgery from New York University College of Dentistry.