Last week I reviewed the importance of your hearing in your cognitive health. It must be “health via your head” month, as now I want to review the importance of oral well-being and your overall health. Your mouth is the gateway to your body, thereby making your oral health vital for your overall health. Poor oral health is associated with a variety of diseases via mechanisms of chronic low-grade inflammation, immune dysregulation and oxidative stress. A meta-analysis identified 28 noncommunicable diseases strongly associated with oral health, fom chronic kidney disease, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer.
The health of your mouth dictates the health of your body. One area a lot of people forget is the effects of oral health on your nutrition. Healthy teeth and gums allow people to consume a varied and nutritious diet, which supports energy levels, immune function and long-term wellness. When oral problems develop, nutritional choices often become more limited. Compared to an apple, ice cream is easy to eat if your mouth hurts or your teeth are lacking. Oral health can have a significant influence on self-confidence, your ability to communicate and social engagement.
Individuals who experience missing or painful teeth can have concerns about their appearance. They may become less willing to participate in social activities. This can affect emotional health and overall quality of life. Maintaining oral health supports not only physical comfort but also positive social connections that are vital for preventing cognitive issues. As we all focus on healthy aging, we immediately think about exercise, your diet, preventative medical procedures and care, and sleep. We need to add oral health to that list (along with hearing, as per last week’s article.) Chew well my friends.
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