Most people view oral health and whole-body health as completely separate issues, but in reality, your mouth is a primary entry point for both the digestive and respiratory tracts. This means that if you don’t maintain good dental hygiene, harmful bacteria can enter the bloodstream and affect other parts of your body, such as your heart.
This is why it’s critical to incorporate a holistic approach to wellness that includes oral care. It is the only way to ensure that a person’s overall wellness is maximized.
In the United States, many adults struggle with the condition of their teeth and gums. They struggle to eat and work due to toothaches and gum infections, they miss social activities due to poor oral hygiene and they have lower self-esteem because of unattractive smiles. As a result, some workers have to take time off from their jobs to undergo expensive and uncomfortable procedures to improve their oral health.
Luckily, this can be avoided with a consistent and thorough routine of daily brushing and flossing coupled with regular visits to your local Torrance dentist. Studies show that a healthy mouth can boost your quality of life and even make you healthier!
The mouth is home to up to six million bacteria, but the body’s natural defenses and a routine of proper oral hygiene keep these organisms under control. If left unchecked, these organisms can reach levels that cause infection and disease. If this occurs, it is known as gingivitis or periodontitis. These conditions can impact other areas of the body such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory problems.
Researchers are still working to understand the link between poor oral health and whole-body health, but it is clear that there is a significant connection. Periodontitis, for example, has been linked to systemic illnesses like cardiovascular disease and diabetes. In addition, poor oral health can lead to nutritional deficiencies and low energy.
To help employers improve the health of their workforce, Karen Rosen DDS of Madison Park Family Dentistry offers the comprehensive dental plan “Health Through Oral Wellness” which is designed to provide preventative services to reduce the number of employees who need more costly, extensive and invasive procedures. As a result, the plan increases employee productivity and lowers costs for the company through reduced absenteeism.