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Oral diseases take many shapes and forms, with the most
common being tooth decay and gum disease. If not properly
managed, they can negatively impact the rest of your body; which
is why oral health is essential to general health and well-being at
every stage of life.



General health conditions can also increase the risk of problems
in the mouth. For example, oral diseases are linked with diabetes,
heart disease, respiratory disease, and some cancers; while
having diabetes increases the risk of getting gum disease.
Poor oral health can be the result, as well as the cause, of poor
general health. 'Think Mouth, Think Health' by taking action to
protect your oral health and help you safeguard your general
health and quality of life.

Control common risk factors
MOST ORAL DISEASES SHARE COMMON RISK FACTORS WITH OTHER DISEASES



Oral diseases share common risk factors with general health conditions. These risk factors are triggered by individual behaviour and lifestyle, like an unhealthy diet (particularly one
high in sugar), tobacco use, harmful use of alcohol, and poor oral hygiene. It’s important to recognize that you can help prevent oral diseases, as well as other health conditions, by taking charge of your oral health.
It’s never too early or too late to start looking after your mouth, your body will thank you.

Eat healthy Don't use tobacco
Consuming too much sugar from
snacks, processed food, and
soft drinks is a major risk factor
for oral disease (mainly tooth
decay), as well as diabetes, heart
disease, and cancer. Excessive
sugar consumption also causes
serious dependence and promotes
weight gain.
Using tobacco in any form –
smoking or smokeless – is unsafe
and contributes to developing gum
disease and oral cancer. Tobacco
use also contributes to heart
disease, respiratory disease, and
other cancers, and is the leading
cause of preventable death in
the world.

Practice good oral care
Your mouth is a mirror to your
body and reflects your general health and well-being



Protect your mouth and body from early in life by:
eating a healthy diet low in sugar, high in fruits and vegetables
avoiding tobacco use avoiding excessive alcohol consumption
adopting good oral hygiene habits
brush your teeth for two minutes, twice a day, using either a
manual or electric toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste
don't rinse with water straight after brushing, spit out any excess
toothpaste instead
rinse with a fluoride mouthwash or chew sugar-free gum after
meals and snacks when brushing isn't possible clean between your teeth using floss or other interdental cleaners for additional benefits
wearing a mouthguard when engaging in contact sports having regular dental check-ups

Remember
Preventive care is always the best option, so seek early detection and
treatment to fight oral diseases and associated general health conditions.