Healthy mouth, body and mind happy

The mouth is directly linked to our ability to speak, smile, eat and express emotions, directly influencing our quality of life. But do you know how to take good care of your oral health, such an important pillar of your health in general?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 3.5 billion people in the world suffer from oral diseases, a very worrying data.

This is because if good oral hygiene prevents problems such as cavities, gingivitis and periodontitis, you need to know that it can do much more than that, and also prevent other serious problems for the body as a whole.

Oral diseases and the health of the body and mind

Studies have shown that poor oral health has an influence, for example, on diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer’s, inflammatory bowel disease, pneumonia and rheumatoid arthritis, among others.

Why does this happen? The bacteria that proliferate in the mouth and are responsible for causing periodontitis can migrate to other parts of the body when not properly treated, causing damage. After all, our body’s systems are all connected to each other!

In addition to the impact on the body, a healthy mouth also has a high impact on the mind, contributing to self-esteem, sociability and even the proper intake of nutritious food, which directly influences well-being.

What are the signs of a sick mouth?

Paying attention to the signs and symptoms is important, so let’s get to know some of the main ailments that affect the mouth.

Periodontitis is one of the most common oral diseases among adults. Considered the most advanced stage of gingivitis, it causes inflammation and destruction of the supporting apparatus of the teeth, which can lead to their permanent loss.

The initial signs of periodontal disease can easily be seen in everyday life. Bleeding when brushing or flossing, as well as reddened gums, are warning signs.

Other signs such as tooth pain, swelling, stains, bad breath, plaque on the tongue, as well as canker sores or lesions that don’t disappear within 15 days should be investigated by a dentist for appropriate treatment.

Daily care is for everyone:

Routine preventive care should be taken by everyone, not just those with obvious symptoms. Here are some guidelines for effective brushing.

Wash your hands: before starting oral hygiene, wash your hands with soap and water.
Rinse your mouth vigorously with water: this will remove any food residue
Floss daily: start cleaning with dental floss and, if necessary, also use interdental cleaners, found in pharmacies.
Use the right amount of toothpaste: no more than a grain of pea, a quantity enough for an adult
Brush your teeth the right way: use a brush with a small head and soft bristles, use fluoride toothpaste and remember that a good brushing lasts about 2 minutes. Use moderate force (don’t overdo it) and short strokes.

Other important guidelines:

Scrape your tongue: the habit of lightly scraping your tongue in the morning with a scraper suitable for this purpose reduces bacteria that lodge on it
Go to the dentist regularly: do this at least twice a year to check that everything is under control. Remember: the absence of pain is not an indication that there are no problems in your mouth.

Do you clean your toothbrush?

Daily: after use, rinse the brush with water and spray a little antiseptic on the bristles.
Once a week: clean your toothbrush with 0.12% chlorhexidine digluconate mouthwash. To do this, use a clean cup and pour in the undiluted solution. Shake the toothbrush in the cup with the product for 30 seconds, rinse off the excess rinse under running water and leave the toothbrush to dry.
Changing the toothbrush: should be done every three months or sooner if the bristles are worn out.

Spread useful information: talk to your family and friends about the precautions that make a difference to good oral health!