Healthy Teeth, a Mirror of Your Overall Health

Have you ever felt your teeth ache and pain while eating ice cream? Hmmm... it could be that your teeth are having problems. Letting this condition continue will disrupt your activities. These aching and painful teeth can cause various health problems if not treated properly.

What happens if you have bad oral health?

By 2022, WHO estimates that nearly 3.5 billion people worldwide will experience oral disease. Globally, an estimated 2 billion people suffer from permanent tooth decay, and 514 million children suffer from primary tooth decay.

Bad oral health can increase the risk of various health conditions, such as 

1. Gingivitis

Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums that causes irritation and pain. While gingivitis is very common and easy to cure, if left untreated, it can lead to a more severe gum disease called periodontitis. Gingivitis symptoms include redness, pain, swelling, bleeding, and receding gums. Sometimes gingivitis can cause bad breath.

Maintaining good oral hygiene, such as flossing regularly, can avoid gingivitis. However, see a doctor immediately if your gums appear red, swollen, or bleeding.

2. Periodontitis

Periodontitis occurs when gingivitis is left untreated and progresses further into the supporting tissues of the teeth (periodontal). This disease can cause permanent damage to the gum tissue, the ligaments, and the jawbone that supports it. Severe periodontitis can lead to tooth loss.

Periodontitis symptoms include tartar (hardened plaque), bad breath, changes in tooth position, and frequent bleeding, receding, or painful gums.

Periodontitis can be treated with appropriate intervention from a dentist, such as teeth cleaning, antibiotics, surgery, and aftercare.

3. Heart disease

Researchers have investigated the relationship between gum disease and cardiovascular health for decades.

Emerging research, for example, has found a concerning link between dental health and heart problems. Gum disease, for example, can cause cardiovascular problems and increase the risk of heart attack.

• Poor oral health causes bacteria to grow in our mouths. These germs can enter the bloodstream and travel to other body parts, compromising our systemic health.
  
  
• Inflammation from dental bacteria can lead to infection of the heart's lining, called endocarditis. Oral bacteria can also indirectly cause arterial blockages, heart attacks, and strokes because chronic illnesses can cause systemic and immunological inflammatory reactions in the body, increasing the risk of blood vessel damage and blockage.

4. Lung disease

An overgrowth of harmful bacteria can cause cavities, inflamed gums, bleeding, and similar dental problems. If left untreated, these problems can lead to infections.

These bacteria can also spread further into the lungs, causing bronchitis, pneumonia, and worsening conditions such as emphysema and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Daily dental hygiene can help your teeth and lungs. You must treat the bacteria on your teeth and gums before they spread to your lungs.

How can I protect my oral health?

Oral hygiene is the best way to protect yourself from developing gum disease. Here are some things you can do to keep your oral health:

1. Keep your teeth clean

• Use fluoride toothpaste.
  When choosing a toothpaste, don't just focus on the taste and whitening properties.
  
  Look for fluoride, the most important ingredient, because it is essential for protecting and strengthening teeth. Fluoride provides a protective layer on teeth and fights harmful oral bacteria to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
  
  

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Use a soft, bristled toothbrush. Brush your tongue as well.
  
  
• Brush your teeth before you go to bed. Unfortunately, many people neglect to brush their teeth at night. Brushing your teeth helps to remove germs and plaque that build up on your teeth during the day.
  
  
• Clean your teeth daily with dental floss, water-based floss, or another product made specifically for this purpose.
  
  
• Brush your tongue. Your tongue harbors bacteria like a sponge. Every time you brush your teeth, brush your tongue with a toothbrush. You can also buy special tongue cleaners.
  
  
• Replace your toothbrush every 3–4 months. Do it sooner if the bristles are worn or falling out.
  
  
• Visit the dentist at least once a year for a checkup and cleaning.

2. Eat balanced diet

• Eat healthy foods and limit sugary foods and drinks.
  Consuming sugary foods can trigger toothaches. Avoid sugary foods, like chocolate, candy, biscuits, and cakes. Also limit consumption of ice cream, syrup, or jam. Increase consumption of vegetables and fruits.
  
  

• Drink plenty of water.
  Water helps wash away fine food particles and bacteria in your mouth and neutralizes acids that can thin and weaken tooth enamel. After eating, be sure to rinse your mouth to remove any food debris from your mouth.
  
  

3. Eliminate stress

Stress can cause various health problems, including oral diseases. When cortisol levels increase, periodontal disease conditions will worsen. In addition, a study conducted by the Journal of Periodontology (JOP) claims that many people who struggle with stress neglect their oral hygiene.

4. Exercise regularly

Exercise is a great way to burn excess fat and maintain a healthy weight. Maintaining a healthy weight and being physically fit help reduce the risk of periodontal disease.

5. Avoid smoking

Smoking can lead to gum disease and oral cancer.

What if I have problems with my dental health?

If you are having problems with your oral health, immediately visit the GWS Medika Permata Hijau Clinic. At this health clinic in Jakarta, you can get scaling and stain removal services, teeth whitening, and various oral health needs.

Dental examinations and treatments are carried out by general dentists and specialist dentists. The medical team will adjust to your needs. Schedule your appointment immediately.

GWS Medika Permata Hijau Clinic, a health clinic in Jakarta, is open every Monday–Sunday, 08.00–22.00.