How Can Maintaining Good Oral Health Affect Your Overall Well-Being?

Believe it or not, your mouth, teeth and gums can say a lot about your oral health and overall well-being. In fact, those who dedicate the time and resources to maintain a healthy smile may be able to reap the benefits of good overall health for years to come.

Ultimately, even a tiny amount of saliva can teach a doctor about your general well-being. The Academy of General Dentistry points out more than 90 percent of systemic diseases produce oral signs and symptoms, and some of the oral conditions that may impact your overall well-being include:

Cardiovascular disease:

Endocarditis:

  • An infection of the inner lining of the heart, endocarditis may occur if bacteria from the mouth or other parts of the body move through the bloodstream and attach themselves to damaged areas of the heart.

Pregnancy and birth:

  • Studies have indicated that periodontitis, a gum infection that can damage or destroy the bone and soft tissue that support the teeth, has been connected to low birth weight and premature birth.

Comparatively, various conditions may affect your oral health, including:

Diabetes:

  • An individual who suffers from diabetes may be at greater risk of infection, and as such, he or she could be more susceptible to gum disease than others.

Osteoporosis:

  • Osteoporosis may cause the bones to deteriorate rapidly over time and has been linked to periodontal bone and tooth loss.

Alzheimer’s disease:

  • In many instances, an individual’s oral health will worsen as Alzheimer’s disease progresses.
  • Although there are numerous risks that may impact your oral health, there are many easy ways to protect your teeth, gums and mouth, such as:
  • Brush the teeth at least twice a day and use fluoride toothpaste.
  • Floss the teeth daily.
  • Replace your toothbrush roughly every three to four months.
  • Set up regular dental check-ups and cleanings.
  • Avoid tobacco consumption.

At Howard Healthcare Academy, we’re committed to helping students understand the link between an individual’s oral health and general well-being. We offer a comprehensive dental assistant training program that ensures students can gain insights into oral health issues and teach patients about these problems as well.

To find out more about Howard Healthcare Academy, please contact us today at (619) ACADEMY or via email at info@howardacademy.edu.

Recent Posts

Dental Assistant Degree vs. Certificate: Choosing the Best Career Path

Thinking about becoming a dental assistant? You’re doing your research — and that’s a great first step! The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the job outlook for dental assistants is favorable. Specifically, it estimates a faster than the average growth rate of 7% through 2032. So, how do you become a dental assistant?...

A man receiving treatment from a female dental assistant
Dental Assistant Cover Letters: Everything You Need to Know

If you are applying for a job as a dental assistant, it is essential to create an excellent dental assistant cover letter. Cover letters help prospective employers understand why you should be hired. They showcase your professional ability, highlight your strengths, and show that you are serious about the opportunity to work as a dental...

Dental assistant helping a dentist with a young patient
How Much Do Dental Assistants Make?

If you want to become a dental assistant, you want to understand more about how much dental assistants make and whether it is a decent salary. Dental assistants’ pay depends on several factors, such as specific responsibilities and roles, location, education, and professional experience. A typical dental assistant’s salary in the United States is between...

Dental assistant explaining paperwork to a patient
What is an Expanded Duty Dental Assistant? Explore Roles & Responsibilities

An expanded duty dental assistant, also known as an expanded functions dental assistant (EFDA), is a certified dental assistant who has undergone additional training and schooling to earn the licensure and skills that enables them to perform specific dental procedures. EFDAs can perform specific dental procedures that you would expect a dentist to perform, but...

Contact an Admissions Rep

We’re happy to answer any of your questions and show you around.

Schedule A Tour

Talk to a member of our Admissions team right away.

Apply Now

Fill out this form and we’ll reach out and talk through your options.