Have you ever thought about how dirty the inside of your mouth is? Every time we drink or chew something, we are exposing our teeth to the elements, as well as bacteria. Although it’s a little unpleasant to picture your mouth as a pigsty, that is exactly what it becomes when you neglect your oral health. There are many good reasons for why dentists want us to brush and care for our teeth daily, the primary one being the preservation of our teeth. But were you aware that good oral hygiene can actually help protect your whole body, beyond your mouth?
How is Oral Hygiene Linked to My Immune System?
The mouth is the primary gateway that bacteria and germs use to enter your body. Although there’s no surefire way to prevent bacteria from entering your mouth, having a healthy immune system and good oral hygiene means that these bacteria will not pose a threat to the rest of your body. But when left unchecked, oral bacteria can cause issues like gum disease or inflammation, among other problems, which forces your immune system to work harder than usual to compensate, leaving other bodily systems more susceptible to infection.
What Are the Dangers of Poor Oral Hygiene?
While there are many potential issues that can arise from poor oral hygiene, gingivitis and periodontal diseases are two common problems. When there is an overabundance of bacteria in the mouth, the gums become red and swollen and rely on your body’s immune system to combat the inflammation. However, when your immune system is called on to address what’s going on in your mouth, the rest of your body is vulnerable to immune-related diseases including asthma, eczema, HIV/AIDS, diabetes, lupus, heart disease and more.
Can I Fortify My Immune System with Good Oral Hygiene?
Even though there are many ways to improve the overall strength of your immune system, a sizable number of them involve practicing good oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth daily, along with flossing regularly, can help to remove bacteria from the surfaces and sides of your teeth. Maintaining a well-rounded diet filled with fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and healthy fats will ensure both a healthy weight and a stronger immune system. Having your teeth professionally cleaned periodically will greatly reduce the number of bacteria that can build up in your mouth over time, too. Avoiding things that are detrimental to oral health, like smoking, acidic and alcoholic beverages, and sugary foods is also prudent.
Your body’s immune system is the first line of defense when it comes to self-preservation. If practicing good oral hygiene can do much to protect you from something serious, it seems like a no-brainer to brush daily and take extra care of your mouth.
About the Practice
Davis, Roberts, Boeller, & Rife Dental has been serving Englewood and the surrounding Florida communities for several years. Helmed by the elite team of Drs. Boeller, Roberts, Davis, and Rife, they bring countless hours of experience and specialization to their practice, emphasizing gentle and personalized care for patients of all ages. If you have any questions about the article or would like to contact one of the doctors, you can reach them at their website or (941) 474-6466.