Currently, it is estimated that one in three Spaniards has a problem in their oral health, according to data from a study carried out by Vitaldent. However, part of this population is unaware that many diseases of the body have their origin in the mouth. Poor oral health or failure to treat certain dental conditions can have a negative impact on overall health.
- For this reason, on the occasion of World Health Day that is commemorated today, April 7, experts want to warn that suffering from some type of disease in the mouth can lead to problems of a greater nature, so taking care of oral health is becomes not so much a question of aesthetics as of general health.
- Thus, gum (periodontal) diseases can lead to other health problems. And it is that these cause a bacterial infection that not only stays in the mouth but also penetrates the bloodstream, becoming an etiological factor for other complications. In this way, the bacteria that grow in the mouth cause a greater risk of cardiovascular problems, diabetes, diseases of the immune system or can even reach the lungs causing respiratory diseases such as pneumonia. Likewise, it has been identified as a possible risk factor for the development of cerebrovascular accidents.
Caution also for pregnant women
- In the case of pregnant women, it is more common to suffer from gum problems due to hormonal issues. This can lead to an increased risk of premature births and low birth weight babies. This is because gum infections increase the levels of biological fluids that induce labor.
- More than 600 different bacteria coexist in the mouth, many of them harmful to health such as those related to cavities, periodontal diseases and systemic diseases. As Vitaldent specialists confirm, these bacteria are kept under control with good habits and correct oral hygiene, through simple methods such as brushing after each meal and daily flossing. If these habits are not followed, the bacteria grow out of control, leading to infectious and inflammatory reactions that have serious consequences.
- But not only infections in the mouth can be the origin of certain
general health problems. Some conditions in the dental pieces also cause disorders in the organism. Precisely, the absence of teeth influences chewing, so the food is not crushed normally, which causes the stomach to not work correctly and causes digestive problems. - In addition, by not being able to chew properly, you stop consuming certain foods that are difficult to
grind but necessary for the body, which creates eating disorders that lead to malnutrition. - On the other hand, various dental problems are associated with episodes of migraines and back pain. This is the case of retained third molars or malocclusion problems that can result in frequent and severe pain. Therefore, maintaining good oral health is a basic aspect to enjoy good health in general.