Oral Health: A Window to Your Overall Health

 Oral health is more important than most people realize. The mouth is an indicator of overall health just as the smile is an expression of the personality.
 

What is the connection between Oral Health and Overall Health?

Mouth is teeming with bacteria, most of which are harmless.  Under normal body’s natural defenses and good oral hygiene, these bacteria can be under control.  However, without proper oral hygiene; bacteria can reach levels that lead to oral as well as systemic infections.

Medications used to manage medical conditions like antihistamines, diuretics, pain killers, decongestants can reduce salivary flow, increasing the potential for dental disease.

Below is an excerpt from the Mayo Clinic-

What conditions may be linked to oral health?

Your oral health might affect, be affected by, or contribute to various diseases and conditions, including:

• Endocarditis. Endocarditis is an infection of the inner lining of your heart (endocardium). Endocarditis typically occurs when bacteria or other germs from another part of your body, such as your mouth, spread through your bloodstream and attach to damaged areas in your heart.
• Cardiovascular disease. Some research suggests that heart disease, clogged arteries and stroke might be linked to the inflammation and infections that oral bacteria can cause.
• Pregnancy and birth. Periodontitis has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.
• Diabetes. Diabetes reduces the body's resistance to infection — putting the gums at risk. Gum disease appears to be more frequent and severe among people who have diabetes. Research shows that people who have gum disease have a harder time controlling their blood sugar levels.
• HIV/AIDS. Oral problems, such as painful mucosal lesions, are common in people who have HIV/AIDS.
• Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis — which causes bones to become weak and brittle — might be linked with periodontal bone loss and tooth loss.
• Alzheimer's disease. Tooth loss before age 35 might be a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease.
• Other conditions. Other conditions that might be linked to oral health include Sjogren's syndrome — an immune system disorder that causes dry mouth — and eating disorders.

Because of these potential links, be sure to tell your dentist if you're taking any medications or have had any changes in your overall health — especially if you've had any recent illnesses or you have a chronic condition, such as diabetes. 

How can I protect my oral health?

To protect your oral health, practice good oral hygiene every day. For example:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day.
• Floss daily.
• Eat a healthy diet and limit between-meal snacks.
• Replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if bristles are frayed.
• Schedule regular dental checkups.

Also, contact your dentist as soon as an oral health problem arises. Remember, taking care of your oral health is an investment in your overall health.

Your Child's First Visit to the Dentist

It is generally recommended that a child be seen by a dentist by the age of 1 or within 6 months after his or her first tooth comes in.

What Happens at the First Dental Visit?

The first dental visit is usually short and involves very little treatment. This visit gives your child an opportunity to meet the dentist in a non-threatening and friendly way. Some dentists may ask the parent to sit in the dental chair and hold their child during the examination. The parent may also be asked to wait in the reception area during part of the visit so that a relationship can be built between your child and your dentist.

During the exam, your dentist will check all of your child's existing teeth for decay, examine your child's bite, and look for any potential problems with the gums, jaw, and oral tissues. If indicated, the dentist or hygienist will clean any teeth and assess the need for fluoride. He or she will also educate parents about oral health care basics for children and discuss dental developmental issues and answer any questions.

Topics your dentist may discuss with you might include:

1. Good oral hygiene practices for your child's teeth and gums and cavity prevention
2. Fluoride needs
3. Oral habits (thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, lip sucking)
4. Developmental milestones
5. Teething
6. Proper nutrition
7. Schedule of dental checkups. Many dentists like to see children every 6 months to build up the child's comfort and confidence level in visiting the dentist, to monitor the development of the teeth, and promptly treat any developing problems.

Early dentist visits enhance oral and general health and boost confidence in children says Dr Cherukuri from her dental practice in Chino, California.

Weight Loss Resolution?

Dental Care for Special People

The oral needs of people with special conditions like stroke, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, mental retardation, Down syndrome, genetic disorders, Alzheimer's disease or Arthritis are just as critical, if not more; to maintain Healthy Mouths and Healthy Lives says Dr. Cherukuri.

A healthy mouth is an important part of total health. Healthy, strong teeth allow us to eat and chew, to speak clearly and to feel good about ourselves.

Prevention is Key to a Healthy Mouth-

Daily toothbrushing and flossing remove plaque and food particles
Flouride strengthens teeth against decay.
Sealants to protect chewing surfaces of back teeth
A Healthy, Balanced diet
Regular Dental Visits to detect early signs of disease

When assisting a child or a loved one with oral hygeine, choose a well lit location that's convenient for you.

If  the person is uncooperative or uncontrollable, try to calm him by explaining what you are about to do or schedule the task at a time of day when the person is well rested or receptive.

Some people are sensitive to having their mouth and head touched.  Try to move in a calm, slow, reassuring manner so as not to startle the person.  In addition, give verbal praise, reinforce independent attempts and take the opportunity for one on one interraction.

Consult with the dentist and physician to determine the best position to use. Not all positions are safe for all people and conditions.   Whatever position you find works best, remember to support the person's head.  Take special care to prevent them from choking or gagging when the head is tilted back.  If a person is unable or unwilling to keep their mouth open, a mouth prop will be helpful.

All denture wearers should continue regular dental visits.  Besides checking the dentures, the dentist will check for signs of oral cancer and examine the gum ridges, tongue and jaw joints.

Conditions that require use of long term medications can cause different problems like dry mouth, enlarged and bleeding gums that requires ongoing dental oversight.

For more information, visit www.chinosmiles.com

Diet and Dental Health

Safe and Healthy Super Bowl!!

Have a Safe and Healthy Super Bowl Celebration

Whether you are having or going to a party, these tips provide a Healthy Game Plan for Super Bowl Sunday.

As you plan Super bowl festivities make sure to keep health and safety in mind during your celebrations.

Eat healthy

Hosting the party? Avoid a false start with fattening foods. Add healthy snacks to your menu instead of high fat foods, or go for the super bowl trophy by serving all healthy snacks. Eat healthy snacks before the celebration to prevent overindulging.

• Include fresh fruits and vegetables, such as apple halves or carrot sticks. There should be a variety in season.
• Avoid the blind side; many dips and dressings contain far more calories than you think. Limit portions or serve fat-free or low-fat dips and dressings.
• Offer foods and beverages low in fat, calories, sugars, salt, and sodium.
• Serve foods and beverages that can be consumed by people with diabetes or on special diets.

Get Smart: Entertaining [PDF - 435KB]
Fruits and Veggies Matter
Nutrition Topics
Diabetes and Me: Eat Right

Consider food safety

As you prepare game day meals and snacks, take steps to avoid serving recalled products and follow food safety guidelines to prevent illness.

• Visit the Food Safety website for information on product recalls.
• Follow the Four Rules of Food Safety: Clean, Separate, Cook, Chill.

FoodSafety.gov
Be Food Safe

Limit alcohol

Don't get a penalty for drinking and driving. Take steps to make sure you and other guests you celebrate with avoid driving under the influence of alcohol.

• Plan ahead. Always designate a non-drinking driver before any party or celebration begins.
• Don't drink and drive or let others drink and drive.
• Be a helpful host by reminding your guests to designate a sober driver and offer alcohol-free beverages.

Alcohol is common during sports celebrations, but be mindful that for pregnant women, consuming alcohol can cause babies to be born with fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), a lifelong condition that causes physical and mental disabilities.
Alcohol: Frequently Asked Questions
Vital Signs: Binge Drinking
Drinking and Driving: A Threat to Everyone
Quick Stats: Binge Drinking
Fetal Alcohol Information

Get physical activity

Score a first down by adding games that include physical activity. Physical activity doesn't need to be hard to be beneficial. Be active for at least 2½ hours a week. Include activities that raise your breathing and heart rates, and that strengthen your muscles.

• Dance along with the music during half time or put on your own half-time show.
• Toss the football around during commercial breaks.
• Lift hand weights, stretch, or use a stationary bicycle or treadmill while watching television.

How Much Physical Activity Do You Need?
Physical Activity

Stay warm

If it's going to be cold, take these steps to stay warm on game day.

• If you are tailgating or celebrating outdoors, dress warmly and wear loose-fitting, layered clothes.
• Outer garments should be tightly woven and water-repellent.
• Drink warm liquids that do not contain caffeine or alcohol. Alcoholic drinks cause your body to lose heat more quickly.
• Keep heat sources at least 3 feet away from furniture and drapes.

Extreme Cold: A Prevention Guide
Winter Storm Facts

Stay safe

Parties and tailgating can be fun, but it's important to pay close attention to things that may cause injury and take precautions. Injuries, both unintentional and those caused by acts of violence, are among the top ten killers for Americans of all ages. Injuries can cause pain and inconvenience, and even lead to disability, chronic pain, and death.

• Never leave children unattended.
• Avoid wearing clothing or costumes that block your vision or restrict your movement.
• Make sure your pets can handle the excitement before placing them in new or strange situations.
• Never use generators, grills, camp stoves, or other gasoline, propane, natural gas, or charcoal-burning devices inside your home, basement, garage, or camper. Even when using these items outdoors, make sure they are not near an open window.
• Have a fire extinguisher nearby when cooking or using a grill in case there's an accidental flare-up.
• Have a first-aid kit in your home and vehicle to handle injuries like small cuts and bruises.
• Wear seatbelts.
• Wear appropriate protective gear when playing a pick-up game or riding bicycles, motorcycles, and skateboards.

Handwashing: Clean Hands Save Lives
Healthy Pets, Healthy People
Intimate Partner Violence Prevention
Take Concussions out of Play: Learn to Prevent, Recognize, and Respond to Concussions

Enjoy the game!

This content and healthy super bowl recipes are available at http://www.cdc.gov/men/superbowl/.