APRIL IS ORAL HEALTH MONTH

Everything that happens in our mouth affects the entire body. Chewing and eating affects DIGESTION and therefore NUTRITIONAL intake. This is why it is especially important to be aware of what we eat for many reasons.

Eating a well balanced diet of fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese, nuts and avoiding sugar where possible is key to providing essential vitamins & minerals to keep the mouth and therefore the body healthy. Foods high in sugar can cause cavities and acidic foods erode the tooth enamel.

Vitamin C foods help keep gums healthy, reduces inflammation and keeps the immune system strong.

Inflammation is an indication of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a contributing factor in many health issues one of which is heart disease. The theory is toxins from gum disease get released into the blood which when travels through the body and helps to form plaque in the arteries. Plaque can lead to serious issues like blood clots & stroke.

Further to this, the bacteria from gum disease causes the liver to work overtime to make high levels of proteins which can cause inflammation of the blood vessels. For those with existing heart issues it is imperative to keep your oral hygiene in top shape as bacteria has a tendency to attach itself to damaged valves & tissue!

Symptoms of periodontal disease are persistent bad breath, inflamed, bleeding or receding gums and loose teeth. Don’t let these things go unchecked. Visit your dentist at least twice a year – if you have trouble getting to your dentist or other health care provider contact iCare Home Health to see how we can assist you.

If you eat sweets between meals have a piece of fruit (apples are nature’s toothbrush!) or sugarless gum to produce saliva to keep the sugar from sticking to your teeth.

Some tips to help keep your mouth healthy:

Keep your mouth clean by brushing 2-3 times/day and floss daily; eat an apple to keep teeth clean.
Be aware of cuts, irritations, infections and bad breath, these can lead to serious issues and affect your ability to eat which in turn results in poor nutrition.
Don’t smoke or chew tobacco (this contributes not only to lung cancer, but oral and other cancers, heart disease, etc)
Get regular dental checkups – minimum 2 visits per year

Consuming these sugarless snacks will help to keep your mouth clean: