Oral Health And Immune System
Oral Health And Immune System
INTRODUCTION:
- Your oral health and overall heath are interrelated to each other.
- Mouth is a gateway of entrance for bacteria and germs into your body.
- Immune system is body’s defense mechanism to fight against infections. Maintaining good oral hygiene is very important to keep your immune system strong especially during this global pandemic of COVID-19.
THE CONNECTION:
- Mouth is a home to millions of bacteria—most of these are harmless.
- Mouth is an entry point for digestive and respiratory system.
- When the oral hygiene is good , the bacteria are kept under control but when oral hygiene is poor, these bacteria causes diseases.
- Poor oral hygiene causes these bacteria to multiply and they cause tooth decay and gum problems like gingivitis and periodontitis.
- These bacteria can go to your blood stream causing other problems.
- Also, your immune system has to focus it’s attention to your mouth to fight the bacteria causing this inflammation.
- Keeping your mouth healthy lets the immune system focus on the rest of your body from the invading bacteria.
SYSTEMIC CONDITIONS LINKED TO POOR ORAL HEALTH:
- Endocarditis— when bacteria from your mouth goes through the bloodstream and attaches to some areas of the heart.
- Pneumonia—when bacteria from your mouth goes into the lungs.
- Cardiovascular diseases— oral infections and inflammations are linked to heart diseases, stoke, and clogged arteries.
- Pregnancy complications— oral infections are linked to pre term low birth weight babies.
Oral health is also related to Diabetes, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Cancers, Sjogren’s Syndrome, HIV/AIDS, Osteoporosis and Alzheimer’s disease.
WHAT SOULD I DO?
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day.
- Use fluoridated toothpaste.
- Floss at least once a day.
- Use non alcohol based mouthwash.
- Eat a healthy diet.
- Consume less sugary food and carbonated beverages.
- Avoid smoking.
- Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings.