Although a sore tooth may seem like a small and relatively inconsequential thing actually it isn’t. Your teeth are an integral part of the body’s system. Disease and decay in the mouth can and does affect the health of the whole body, sometimes with serious outcomes.

It is easy to subconsciously think that the rest of the body is isolated from oral disorders because of the way Dental Healh Care and General Medicine health care services are kept separate but nothing could be further from the truth.

Poor oral hygiene or dental health leads to increased risk of:

•    Bacteraemia or bacteria in the blood (which is very serious)
•    Increased risk of heart disease
•    Weaker immune system
•    Lower birth weights and premature babies

Why Flossing is important:

•    Prevents decay,
•    Protects inter-proximal papilla and prevents decay occurring between the spaces of the teeth. (Decay in this area can be costly to reconstruct.)
•    Prevents gingivitis and periodontal disease

Care with Dentures

If you wear dentures it is important to take them out at night because:
•    Doing so improves the flow of oxygen to the area to keep teeth and gums healthy and disease free
•    Reduces the risk of fungal and bacterial infection

Smoking and your teeth

•    Smoking affects the gums
•    Retards healing if you do have work done on your teeth or gums
•    Stains your teeth and diminishes the attractiveness of your smile

Your mouth will often tell you when you need to pay more attention to your oral hygiene. Here is what to look out for:
•    Dry mouth
•    Bad Breath
•    Sore teeth
•    Tender gums
•    Aching jaw
•    Furry feeling when you run your tongue along the surface of your teeth

Look After Your Teeth and Look After Your Wallet

Poor oral hygiene means you are at greater risk of serious tooth decay and of needing expensive dental treatment or even expensive general medical treatment.
Poor dental health also means you will need more regular checkups