but when you neglect your oral hygiene,
levels of bacteria can increase to a
point where they cause infections that
lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
With research pointing to oral bacteria
and the inflammation associated with
periodontitis – a serious form of gum
disease–as potential contributors
toserious diseases, it paysto
take care of your mouth.GUM DISEASE
Most people will suffer
from gum disease at
some point. A common
sign is gums that are
red and puffy, or bleed
when you brush or floss.It’s
usually caused by a build-up
of plaque, a sticky coating that
provides the perfect environment forthe
bacteria that can cause gum diseaseto
live and multiply. There are two typesof
gum disease:Gingivitis: A common and mildform
of gum disease that causes irritation,
redness and inflammation on the gum
around the base of your teeth. Gingivitis
can lead to periodontitis and tooth loss
so it’s important to get it treated as
soon as you notice the signs. The most
common cause of gingivitis is poororal
hygiene. Stepping up your oral carecan
reverse it in most cases.Periodontitis: Ongoing gum
inflammation can cause periodontitis,
where pockets develop between your
gums and teeth that fill with plaque,
tartar and bacteria. These pockets
gradually become deeper, filling
with more bacteria, which can lead
to tooth loss. Even more worrying is
research that suggests the bacteria
responsible for periodontitis can enter
your bloodstream through gum tissue,
possibly affecting your heart, lungs
and other parts of your body – it’s linked
with respiratory disease, rheumatoid
arthritis, coronary artery disease
and stroke. »HOW TO EAT... YOUR TEETH
Bronwen Greenfield says:
» Menopause is a time of
rapid bone loss, so calcium
needs to be increased around
this age bracket. Food sources
of calcium include dairy
foods like milk, yoghurt and
cheese as well as pant-based
sources like nuts, seeds, tahini
and leafy green vegetables.
Our ability to absorb dietary
calcium can also be enhanced
by achieving adequate
vitamin D levels.
» Hormonal changes also
occur with menopause, which
can lead to weight gain. At this
age, requirements for grains
and cereals decrease from six
to four serves per day. Also
make sure you’re getting a
small amount of protein at
each meal and snack.
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Whitening Therapy.AN ALL AGES SHOW
No matter your age, brushing, flossing
and regular dental check-ups work to
safeguard your oral health. The same
applies to a healthy diet, drinking plenty
of water and exercising to help keep
your body – and that includes your
mouth – healthy.Mind your
mouth
Healthy teeth are
free of cavities and
disease, and healthy
gums are pink and,
most importantly,
don’t bleed when
brushed or flossed. But
certain medications, teeth
grinding, and careless brushing
and flossing can all compromise the
condition of our teeth and gums. Here’s
a reminder of how to keep your oral
health in peak condition:» Brush at least twice a day
» Floss daily
» Use fluoride toothpaste
»^ Limit sugary foods and drinks
» Have regular dental check-ups
» Don’t smoke
» Contact your dentist at the first sign
of tooth pain or other concerns.The link between oral
health and disease
Most of the bacteria in your mouth – and
other areas of your body – are harmless,DID YOU
KNOW?
POOR ORAL HEALTH
CAN CONTRIBUTE TO
CONDITIONS SUCH AS
PNEUMONIA AND
ENDOCARDITIS.be informed
Good Health
handbook