Many of us have been taught from childhood how important it is to take care of our teeth. Dental care becomes a part of our daily routine. Seeing a dentist twice a year is an important part of our healthcare plan. But many people may not realize that it is not just the concern for losing teeth, painful extractions or root canals, or even cosmetic concerns that should make your dental health a priority. Having good mouth hygiene actually contributes to your overall health.
Here are a couple of reasons why a healthy mouth is good for your overall health.
Bacteria Build-Up
The mouth is the beginning of the digestive tract. The digestive tract is full of good and bad bacteria, yeast, a variety of microbes, enzymes and stomach acids. Things like flora balance and acidity make a big difference between your ability to digest well and the effectiveness of your immune system.
We typically consume many foods that promote the growth of harmful bacteria and yeast. Sugars, acidic drinks, and processed foods that stick to the inside of your mouth and intestines all can alter your microbial balance. Patrick Walters from Dencover explains that consuming sugary foods or alcohol often leads to cavities. Brushing teeth twice a day and flossing at least once a day will help prevent tooth decay related to these foods.
This happens particularly in the mouth, where we are exposed to foods before they have been transformed by the acids of the stomach. There, bacteria make their home and proliferate. They stick to the teeth and burrow into the tooth’s enamel. Over time, this can evolve into a painful infection of the gums called gingivitis.
This type of bacteria build-up is harmful to the entire body, particularly the digestive tract. Since our body’s systems are interconnected, the rest of the body may suffer from this increase in harmful bacteria. The immune system may also struggle to keep up with fending off these bacteria.
Tooth Decay Toxicity
When your teeth begin to decay due to bacteria eating through the enamel, the result is a cavity that turns black and begins to ache. This is technically an infection within your tooth, which will eventually spread and begin to decay the entire tooth. When this happens, toxins are released from the tooth and enter the bloodstream through the mouth or through the digestive system.
These toxins then bind with heavy metals and chemicals that form even more powerful toxic substances. Your body will struggle to neutralize these poisons. They can even cause the liver, the immune system, and the kidneys to suffer as they struggle to purify your blood.
There are many reasons to keep up with your dental health. Future bills for expensive surgeries, painful extractions or root canals, and the cosmetic value of a healthy mouth are all compelling reasons to make sure you are following your routine and visiting a dentist regularly. Prevention is key to maintaining your health, and know that you’ll also be protecting the health of your entire body when you take care of your teeth.
