Although the link between oral health and overall health is extensively documented, it’s often not a focal point of discussions during dental visits. A report from The National Institutes of Health in April 2022 revealed that 90% of adults aged 20 to 64 experience tooth decay, with nearly half of adults aged 45 to 64 affected by gum disease.

How Oral Health Affects Overall Health

Research demonstrates a clear association between oral health habits and the development of conditions such as diabetes, Alzheimer’s, stroke, and heart disease.

Dr. Michael Roizen, the Chief Wellness Officer at the Cleveland Clinic, emphasizes the significant impact of oral health on our general well-being. Neglecting oral health can lead to dental caries (tooth decay) and gum disease entering the bloodstream, potentially causing arterial plaque disruption or inflammation in the brain and other parts of the body.

In 2019, the World Health Organization identified tooth decay in permanent teeth as the most prevalent health condition globally, affecting approximately 3.5 billion people. Despite this, many fail to recognize that tooth decay not only impacts oral health but also poses risks to overall health.

The Connection Between Mouth and Body

Many dentists stress the interconnectedness of the head and body systems, underlining the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene for overall wellness.

Healthy teeth and gums serve as a protective barrier against harmful microbiomes from entering the bloodstream. Once decay and gum disease set in, this barrier is compromised, increasing the risk of heart disease and other complications.

Research published by the American Heart Association indicates that individuals with gum disease are twice as likely to experience a heart attack and three times as likely to suffer a stroke compared to those without inflammatory gum disease.

The Importance of Flossing

An essential preventive measure against such diseases is daily flossing, which Dr. Roizen equates to the equivalent of taking 8,000 steps a day in terms of its health benefits.

To safeguard oral health and overall well-being, prevention and education play pivotal roles. Initiatives like Colgate-Palmolive’s Know Your OQ oral health literacy aim to raise awareness and promote simple and consistent oral hygiene practices.

The American Dental Association and WHO recommend six fundamental steps for preventing gum disease, including brushing twice a day, daily flossing, biannual dental check-ups, limiting sugary snacks and drinks, avoiding tobacco products, and using protective equipment during sports activities.

Dr. Tien Jiang, a practicing dentist and educator at Harvard School of Dental Medicine, emphasizes the importance of preventive care. Early detection of dental issues through regular check-ups can prevent complications and alleviate the need for costly treatments.

However, misconceptions and access barriers to dental care remain challenges. Ryan emphasizes the need for education and normalization of oral health priorities to shift perceptions and improve access to care.

Additionally, individuals should be aware of alternative sources of dental care, such as dental schools and federally qualified health centers, to ensure timely management of oral health issues.

Steps You Can Take to Prevent Cavities, Gum Disease & Bad Breath

Early detection and prevention can help stop diseases from progressing. Follow these thirteen tips to promote your oral health and healthier future.

Brush Your Teeth

Brush your teeth at least twice a day for 2 minutes with a flouride-based toothpaste to prevent cavities.

Develop Healthy Routines

Incorporate brushing into your bedtime routine to get rid of the germs and plaque that accumulate throughout the day. This is especially important because when we sleep at night our mouths are drier, which makes bacteria in the mouth even more harmful.

Use a Powered or Connected Toothbrush

Brush your teeth properly using circular motions to remove plaque on all tooth surfaces. You can use powered and connected technologies to help guide you for effective tooth brushing. Unremoved plaque can harden, leading to calculus buildup and gingivitis (early gum disease) which can progress to mroe advanced forms of the disease ush as periodontitis, if not addressed.

Floss Your Teeth Daily

Floss your teeth at least once daily to clean in between your teeth. Flossing can be difficult, especially for young children and older adults with arthritis. Rather than give up, look for tools that can help you floss your teeth such as ready-to-use dental flossers and other aids, including water flossers.

Use Mouthwash

Consider using mouthwashes as directed. Mouthwash helps in numerous ways depending on the active ingredients in the formula. It also helps you to reach hard-to-brush areas in and around the gums. In children and older people, where the ability to bursh and floos may not be optimal, a mouthwash is particularly helpful. Ask you rdentist for specific mouthwash recommendations.

Brush Your Tongue

Gently brush your tongue every time you brush your teeth to remove plaque or germs that accumulate on your tongue, and if necessary use tongue cleaners.

Drink Plenty of Water

Keep your mouth hydrated by drinking plenty of water, which continues to be the best drink for your overall health. Water along with saliva can help wash out some of the negative effects of sticky and acidic foods and beverages between brushing.

Follow a Healthy Diet

Limit your sugar intake and follow a healthy diet. Sugar is converted into acids in the mouth, which can then erode the enamel of your teeth. These acids are what lead to cavities. Flouride in toothpastes is there to strengthen the enamel and to make it more resistant to tooth decay. Acidic fruits, carbonated beverages, teas and coffee can also wear down tooth enamel, leading to erosion.