On World Oral Health Day, VDH wants to remind everyone that good oral health is more than having a bright smile.
About Oral Health
Oral health refers to health of the teeth, gums, and related structures. Having good oral health can affect our ability to eat, speak, smile, and connect with others.
Oral health is vital to the management and prevention of chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and respiratory illness as well as overall wellness.
You aren’t really healthy without good oral health!
Some of the most common diseases and conditions that impact our oral health include:
- Cavities (tooth decay)
- Periodontal (gum) diseases
- Oral cancers
- Tooth loss
Steps for Good Oral Health
The good news is that most oral diseases and conditions are preventable.
Simple daily habits can make a big difference:
- Brush teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily.
- Get a dental check-up and professional cleanings at least once a year.
- Eat a healthy diet, limiting sugary drinks and foods.
- Avoid tobacco products.
Oral Health and Chronic Conditions
Oral health is a key part of our overall health and well-being as it’s linked to a variety of chronic conditions:
- Diabetes: Gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugars. Diabetics are three times more likely to have gum disease than non-diabetics.
- Heart Disease: Periodontal patients are 1-2 times more likely to have a heart attack. Bleeding with brushing is not normal and is often the first warning sign of a serious problem.
- Lung Disease/Breathing Problems: Bacteria in the mouth can be inhaled into the lungs, making lung disease worse and increasing the risk of pneumonia.
- Stroke: The fatty blockages in the arteries of stroke victims contain the same bacteria that is found in the mouth.
- Pregnancy: Pregnant people who have gum disease are seven times more likely to have premature or low birthweight babies.
- Oral Cancer: Many cancers and viruses can be detected early by signs and symptoms in the mouth.
Oral Health for Everyone
Unfortunately, many Virginians face barriers accessing oral health care. Some people face barriers like high costs, lack of insurance, transportation, or too few providers in their community.
TRONG Virginia:
- 31% of adults do not have dental coverage.
- Only 27% of practicing dentists treat Virginians enrolled in Medicaid or Family Access to Medical Insurance Security, and public insurance programs for people who have low incomes or disabilities.
- 13 Virginia localities have fewer than one full-time dentist
- This includes eight localities with no full-time dentist
Programs like Chương trình sức khỏe răng miệng của VDH can help by providing dental screenings, treatments, and education to those facing barriers to care.
When everyone has access to quality oral healthcare, we can all smile bigger.
Tìm hiểu thêm
Learn more about oral health at www.vdh.virginia.gov/oral-health/.
