In this month's issue, I would like to talk about something that worries me a lot. Perhaps many people do not realize that on one of the largest ports of entry, and also one of the most vulnerable areas of the human body is the mouth.
Contrary to what occurs on the outer side of the face, which is covered by the skin and thus is much more protected from all types of aggression, the mouth is lined by the mucosa a highly permeable tissue composed of among other things millions of small blood vessels. These vessels communicate with each other and with the larger vessels and arteries forming the bloodstream. The system carries not only all the nutrients necessary for our survival as human beings, but can also transfer all types of viruses, bacteria and toxins through our body.
If we stop to think, everything that occurs within the oral cavity will generate some kind of reflection on another part of the body. The body is a very complex and interconnected system.
Take as an example a person who does not have posterior (back) teeth. More commonly known as molars, these large, strong teeth are responsible for chewing or grinding, while the front teeth are responsible for incising or cutting food. If the food is not chewed properly and is swallowed in chunky pieces, it will go to the stomach and will not be digested properly, consequently, this food will go into the intestine without being well digested and will not be reabsorbed as it should. Consequently, the individual will not receive the necessary nutrients to ensure good health which results in more diseases and health problems.
People with a lot of dental abrasions, broken teeth, periodontal disease, and poor oral hygiene are vulnerable to problems they cannot even imagine. These factors all create an environment in the mouth that is naturally infected by microbes. The mouth requires continuous balance, otherwise oral microbes will cause deterioration within and possibly in other vital organs of the body too.
The relationship of heart, kidney, liver, muscles, etc. with oral infections is already scientifically proven. Bacteria from untreated cavities can travel through the bloodstream to the heart, causing bacterial endocarditis or infectious endocarditis (infections within the internal walls of the heart that can be fatal). Similarly, microorganisms can be transported to the liver, causing hepatitis or liver failure, among other things.
Treating active oral problems as soon as possible should be a top priority in people's lives, but prevention through impeccable oral hygiene and regular visits to your dentist is definitely the best way to lead a long and healthy life.
For more information contact Lake Lucerne Dentistry at (407) 410-4489.