It’s not just bad breath, oral hygiene is important to prevent dementia

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Stress on oral hygiene has been part of civilizations across the world since centuries and it is not without reason. Oral health is not just about having good teeth and keeping away bad breath. Having a clean mouth is important to keep our entire body healthy, and the connection is big.  Saliha Nasline brings you some examples to show why you should care about oral hygiene.

1. Heart Disease

The bacteria from inflammation from infected gums can enter your bloodstream and travel to arteries and cause atherosclerosis (thickening of the arteries), endocarditis (infection in inner lining of heart) and clogged arteries. This can cause an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.

2. Respiratory Infections

Breathing in bacteria from infected teeth and gums over a long period of time can cause infections in the lungs. Infections can be severe, including pneumonia.

3. Diabetic Problems

Inflammation in gums can make it difficult to control your blood sugar and make your diabetes symptoms worse.

4. Dementia

The bacteria from infected gums are capable of entering the brain through nerves or through the bloodstream. They can also increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

5. Impact on Foetus

Gum disease has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.

6. HIV/AIDS

Oral problems, such as painful mucosal lesions, are common in people who have HIV/AIDS. It becomes more important for such people to take extra care of their teeth and gums.

7. Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis causes bones to become weak and brittle. A peek into your mouth can tell how badly your bones are affected as osteoporosis is linked with periodontal bone loss and tooth loss.

8. Other conditions

Eating disorders, immune system disorders, and head and neck cancers are also linked to oral hygiene.

Original post found here.

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