Oral health is not just about having a bright smile and fresh breath; it can also provide valuable insights into your overall health and well-being. The condition of your teeth, gums, and mouth can act as a window into various health issues, sometimes even before other symptoms manifest. We spoke to Dr Nihal Yadav, BDS, Amayra Dental Clinic, Kaushik Enclave, Burari, Delhi and Former Resident, Deen Dayal Hospital, Hari Nagar, Delhi, to explore the different oral health problems and what they can reveal about your overall health, along with their management.
Why Should You Care About Oral Health?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Oral Health Status Report, "Oral diseases affect close to 3.5 billion people worldwide, with three out of four people affected living in middle-income countries. Globally, an estimated two billion people suffer from caries of permanent teeth and 514 million children suffer from caries of primary teeth."
WHO further stated that the majority of oral health issues can be avoided through preventive measures and are manageable when detected early on.
Also Read: Dental Health: 7 Ways To Maintain Good Oral Health Post-35
Different Oral Health Issues and What They Tell About Your Health
Gum Disease (Periodontitis)
Bleeding gums, inflammation, and tenderness are signs of gum disease, which is caused by bacterial infection and poor oral hygiene. A study published in the International Journal of Health Sciences stated that substantial evidence demonstrates a link between periodontal diseases and systemic conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
It further stated that periodontal disease may contribute to a 19% rise in the risk of cardiovascular disease, with this relative risk increasing to 44% in individuals aged 65 years and older.
"The bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and affect other organs, leading to serious health consequences," said Dr Yadav.
Tooth Decay (Cavities)
"Cavities are a common oral health issue resulting from the breakdown of tooth enamel by acids produced by bacteria," stated Dr Yadav. He added that poor dental hygiene, sugary diets, and acidic foods contribute to tooth decay.
In a study published in the Journal of Medicinal and Chemical Sciences, vitamin D deficiency exerts a notable influence on the occurrence of dental caries along with changes in the salivary levels, and selected physicochemical characteristics (such as pH, flow rate, calcium ion, and phosphorus ion).
Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
A dry mouth occurs when there is insufficient saliva production and can be caused by medications, medical treatments like radiation, or systemic conditions, such as Sjogren's syndrome. Dr Yadav stated that a dry mouth not only affects oral health, making you more prone to cavities and gum disease, but it can also indicate underlying health issues like diabetes and autoimmune disorders.
Oral Thrush
"While oral thrush is commonly associated with a weakened immune system, it can also indicate conditions, such as diabetes and iron deficiency anaemia."
Management and Treatment
Proper management and treatment of oral health issues are essential not only for maintaining a healthy mouth but also for addressing potential health concerns. Here are some tips for managing and treating different oral health problems, as per Dr Yadav.
Regular Dental Check-Ups
Regular visits to the dentist are crucial for early detection and prevention of oral health issues. Dentists can identify problems at their initial stages and provide appropriate treatment and advice.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing regularly, and using mouthwash can help prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
Also Read: World Oral Health Day 2023: Expert Explains The Importance Of Brushing For Good Oral Health
Healthy Diet
A balanced diet low in sugary and acidic foods can reduce the risk of cavities. Adequate intake of vitamins and minerals is also essential for oral and overall health.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough water can help alleviate dry mouth and increase saliva production.
Medical Consultation
If you experience persistent oral health issues like bleeding gums, dry mouth, or oral thrush, consult your dentist or healthcare professional to identify potential health problems.
[Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Consult your healthcare provider to get a thorough diagnosis and treatment as per your health needs.]
Image Credits: freepik
