Oral health linked to overall health

“Oral health is just as important as getting a regular physical. It’s not just about getting a cavity filled, it’s about the overall health of the individual.” – Jennifer Williams

Every February, Dental Health Month worldwide. The main purpose of this commemoration is to spread awareness on the importance of good oral health. New research suggests that oral health mirrors the condition of the body as a whole. They say that when our mouth is healthy, it is likely that our overall health is good too. This leads to observations that poor oral health also indicate other health problems.

The annual observance started in 1951 as National Dental Health Week. In 2004, it was expanded into a month-long celebration, pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 559 signed by then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. Recognizing the vital role of the dental profession, all relevant government agencies, as well as professional organizations and medical practitioners in the country are encouraged to share the value of oral/dental health to reach out more people especially in the countryside and make them more conscious about the value of good oral/dental health.

Dental Statistics

Oral diseases have become serious public health condition in the country especially on Filipino children. In a recent National Oral Health Survey, 97.1% of 6-year-old Filipino children suffer from dental decay and an estimated 77% of the population has never been to a dentist. These figures were based on the study of Dr. Bella Monse and Dr. Susan Yanga-Mabunga.

According to Dr. Monse, “crowded living conditions in the families, overcrowded classrooms, lack of water, lack of sanitation facilities at home as well as in the schools, lack of awareness concerning the importance of hygiene and unhealthy and insufficient food are the root causes of poor oral health.”

Filipinos, in their early childhood bear the burden of gum diseases. There are 74% of 12-year-ol children suffering from gingivitis. If not treated, these children may be susceptible to irreversible periodontal diseases as they enter adolescence.

Poor oral health leads to complications

According to the Academy of General Dentistry, there is a relationship between gum diseases and health complication. Poor oral health can lead to other health problems like heart diseases, heart attacks, strokes and respiratory illnesses. Other researches show that 90% of systemic diseases show oral manifestations.

Mayo Clinic, a leading health care and knowledge website, enumerated some conditions that may be linked to oral health. These are:

Heart problems - Gum diseases and dental procedures that may cut your gums may allow bacteria to enter your bloodstream. If your immune system is weak or has a damaged heart valve, this may cause infection in the inner lining of the heart such as endocarditis. Some researches also suggest that clogged arteries and strokes may be linked to oral bacteria.
Women with gum diseases also show higher incidences of pre-term, low birth-weight babies.
Diabetes – It reduces body’s resistance to infection. People with inadequate blood sugar control may develop gum infections and the bones that hold teeth in place.
Alzheimer’s disease – Tooth loss before the age of 35, may be a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease.
Oral and facial pains – According to the Office of the Surgeon General, the pain may be largely due to gum infections that support the teeth and can lead to tooth loss.
Digestion problems – Chemical and physical processes begins in the mouth, and problems here can lead to intestinal failure, irritable bowel syndrome and other digestive disorders.

Maintain good Oral Hygiene

Contrary to the popular belief that good oral health only entails beautiful smile and pretty teeth, it is having good oral hygiene. It means more than brushing and flossing, but eating a healthy diet. People who have good oral health are those who have clean mouth and teeth, free from plaque, pink and healthy gums, and breathe that does not emit odor. Seeing the dentist regularly helps keep our mouth in tip-top shape and it also allows our dentist to watch for any developments that may lead to other health issues.

Delta Dental suggests some tips at home, to practice good oral hygiene:

Brush for two to three times, at least twice a day, with fluoridated toothpaste.
Floss daily to remove plaque from places your toothbrush can’t reach.
Eat a healthy diet that is rich in Vitamins A and C to prevent gum problems.
Avoid cigarettes and tobacco that may contribute to gum diseases and oral cancer.
Exercise preventive care by having regular dental check-ups.