Oral health is a key indicator of overall health, well-being and quality of life. It covers a range of diseases and conditions including dentistry. Normally, the body's natural defenses and good oral health care, such as daily brushing and flossing, keep bacteria under control. However, without proper oral hygiene, bacteria can reach levels that could cause oral infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease.
Paying for needed oral health care is one of the main reasons for catastrophic health spending, resulting in an increased risk of impoverishment and economic hardship. Another complication of poor oral health is gum disease, which can be mild in the early stages, but cause much more serious problems if left untreated. People who have healthy gums are also 70 percent less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease than those who have had gum disease for a long period of time.
gum health