collaborative post
My Aunt sent me a very interesting study from Japan that raised questions about a possible connection between oral health and brain health. Based on that study, more studies have been done with some fascinating findings proving that they are indeed interconnected.
I'll be honest, that is something I had never considered before! But it makes sense after all, the teeth are an integral part of our skeletal system and are in the neighbourhood of our brains. This has made me even more diligent about my oral health, knowing just how important it truly is!
Read on to learn more about how your oral health affects your mental health and ways to support your oral health.
How Our Oral Health Affects Mental Health
A recent study from Japan found that periodontitis (gum disease) and tooth loss are linked to an increased risk of stroke, Alzheimer’s, and other forms of dementia. In short, that means that if a person has gum disease and tooth loss, they are at a higher risk of developing diseases of the brain such as dementia.
In an excellent article by Dr Ben Atkins in ScienceAlert, he further explains the study and implications of the findings. He notes that Satoshi Yamaguchi, the lead author of the Japanese study, stated that "Retaining more healthy teeth without periodontal disease may help to protect brain health… Regular dental visits are important to control the progression of periodontal disease."
Dr Ben Atkins explains that it is not enough to simply maintain a full set of teeth to stay healthy. We must also keep our mouths free from periodontal disease, or else the brain could suffer the cost.
Ways to Support Your Oral Health
Maintaining our oral health is important for so many reasons, and as this study has taught us, it is good for your mental health as well. So with that in mind, here are some simple ways that you can look after your oral health and in turn, your mental health.
Clean your Teeth at Home. It is critical to maintain a rigorous oral health routine. That includes brushing twice a day and flossing. Brushing twice per day is vital in stopping a build-up of germs and plaque. Flossing in between your teeth once a day can improve your oral health and leave you with fresher breath. This expert dentist in Vancouver WA also recommends finishing off with an alcohol-free mouthwash.
Chew Sugar-Free Gum After Meals. Enjoyable habits like chewing sugar-free gum after eating sugary snacks could go a long way toward securing your mouth against plaque and bacteria. Chewing sugar-free gum helps protect your teeth and gums in between meals because your teeth are more at risk of an acid attack after you have eaten. And it is not always possible to brush with a toothbrush and toothpaste after eating. The Oral Health Foundation says that by activating and increasing the flow of saliva, chewing sugarless gum helps reduce plaque acid, strengthen teeth, and reduce tooth decay. Chewing sugar-free gum even shows similar benefits to cavity prevention as brushing your teeth.
Limit Sugary Foods. Making some simple changes to your diet can be a big help to your teeth and mouth health! Of course, it is best to limit your overall intake of sugar, not only for your teeth but for your general health. When you start making changes, keep in mind that certain sugar snacks are worse for your teeth than others. Sticky or hard sweets are ones to avoid, if possible. Moderation is also really important when it comes to sweets. Of course, we all enjoy a treat now and then. When you do go ahead and enjoy sugary desserts, treats and drinks, keep moderation in mind. You don't want to overload yourself.
Visit your Dentist Regularly. Having a good cleaning done to your teeth makes a huge difference in your health and your mouth's overall health. The dentist and hygienist can get more plaque out than you can at home. So even if you are diligent with your oral health routine at home, be sure to visit your dentist regularly. Find a dentist Saffron Walden or one near you.
Conclusion
With so much still to be learned about the connection between disease and health in the body, it is a good idea to look after your oral health and your overall health as well. Making some simple changes to your diet, chewing sugar-free gum after meals and keeping up your oral health routine at home and with your dentist will go a long way to helping your mouth stay healthy and your brain too!
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