Thursday, February 5, 2015

The Importance of Maintaining Oral Health

What is the dirtiest part of the human body? Most people would assume otherwise, but the mouth actually comes into contact with tons of germs and bacteria on a daily basis. According to the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, the mouth contains up to 615 kinds of bacteria such as streptococcus mutans (which causes tooth decay) and lactobacillus (which turns lactose into lactic acid).

Most people don’t realize how vital oral hygiene is to a person’s overall health. The body’s immune system and natural defenses can only do so much, and excessive levels of bacteria can lead to oral infections such as mouth sores, gum diseases, and tooth decay. Research shows that the state of a person’s oral health is reflective of an individual’s overall well-being. Some diseases such as AIDS, diabetes and osteoporosis portray symptoms that can manifest through a person’s oral health.



Like any other part of the body, a person’s mouth should be taken care of. Brushing your teeth after meals, flossing regularly, avoiding sweets and eating food that provides vitamins A and C can help prevent gum diseases. Regular dental checkups are also recommended to ensure that a person’s oral health is in its best shape.

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