Did you know that your oral health offers clues about your overall health — or that problems in your mouth can affect the rest of your body?
A bidirectional relationship exists between oral health and diet and nutrition. Diet and nutrition affect the health of the tissues in the mouth; and the health of the mouth affects nutrients consumed.
The consumption of sugars has been associated with an increased risk of developing dental caries. The complex nature of periodontal disease makes it difficult to determine its relationship with diet and nutrition.
Frequent consumption of acidic food and beverages is associated with an increased risk of erosive tooth wear.
Like other areas of the body, your mouth teams with bacteria — mostly harmless. But your mouth is the entry point to your digestive and respiratory tracts, and some of these bacteria can cause disease.
Normally the body’s natural defenses and good oral health care, such as daily brushing and flossing, keep bacteria under control. However, with a poor diet, bacteria can reach levels that might lead to oral infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease.
Also, some medications can reduce saliva flow. Saliva washes away food and neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth, helping to protect you from microbes that multiply and lead to disease.
Protect yourself by learning more.
Join Dr. Pamela, and Dr. Yinka Adeyinka as they discuss “Diet and Oral Health” on Wednesday 1st September, 2021 on Classic FM 97.3. Time: 8:00am – 8:30am.
You can be part of the program.
Join our question and answer session immediately after the program at 8:30am using this link: bit.ly/DocOnAirQandA
