What is Oral Health Month?
Every year during the month of April, Oral Health Month is celebrated in Canada. Oral Health Month focuses on encouraging the dental community, government organizations, non-governmental organizations, the media, and other groups to participate in various activities that seek to increase the oral health of the citizens of Canada.

Why is Oral Health Important?
Having good oral health is an essential component to having an overall healthy body. Often, issues with oral health can affect the rest of your body. The mouth has a lot of bacteria and the majority of it is harmless. Some bacteria can cause issues and disease if it enters through the respiratory tract or digestive tract. Good oral care can delay the entry of these types of bacteria through the gums or teeth. Saliva is also important in maintaining good oral care. Lack of saliva can lead to acidic levels in the mouth that may encourage bacteria growth or lead to cavities because food is not washed away from the teeth. Keep in mind that maintaining good oral health is an investment to your overall health and quality of life. Contact the Upper Hunt Club Dental Centre in Ottawa today to schedule your teeth cleaning and check-up!

There are several conditions that may be linked to oral health:

• Pneumonia: Certain strains of bacteria that are in the mouth may be pulled into the lungs and lead to respiratory diseases or pneumonia.
• Endocarditis: This refers to the infection in the linings of the heart valves or chambers that usually occur when germs or bacteria from the mouth spread through the blood stream and then attach to areas within the heart.
• Complications with Pregnancy or Birth: certain oral conditions, like periodontitis, have been linked to low birth weight and premature birth.
• Cardiovascular Disease: There is some evidence that strokes and clogged arteries may be linked to infections and inflammation that are caused by oral bacteria and poor oral health.

There are also pre-existing conditions that may affect oral health including:

• Alzheimer's Disease: As Alzheimer's disease progresses, oral health often worsens or declines.
• HIV/AIDS: Issues with oral health, including lesions, are usually seen in individuals who are diagnosed with HIV/AIDS.
• Osteoporosis: Due to the weakness of bones caused by osteoporosis, it also causes tooth loss and periodontal bone loss.
• Diabetes: Higher levels of gum disease is seen in individuals with Diabetes. This is due to their inability to maintain constant control of blood glucose levels. Preventative periodontal care can help improve control of diabetes.

How to Maintain Good Oral Health
There are several steps that should be followed in order to maintain good oral health. Individuals should practice a daily oral hygiene routine. This routine should include the following activities:

• Brush teeth twice daily with a soft bristled toothbrush using toothpaste with fluoride.
• Floss at least once each day.
• Gargle with mouthwash in order to get rid of any food particles that may be left behind after each brushing and flossing.
• Maintain a healthy diet with limited sugar intake.
• Avoid using tobacco.
• Attend regular dental cleanings and check-ups.
• Remember to replace toothbrushes every three months or replace them when the bristles are worn.

It is also important to contact us at the Upper Hunt Club Dental Centre in Ottawa as soon as possible when oral issues arise.

Drinks that You Should Consume for Good Oral Health
The theme for this year's Oral Health Month focuses on reducing the consumption of sugary drinks. Water is extremely important to good oral health. Make sure to choose water as your drink of choice as much as possible. If you do decide to drink a sugary drink like soda, juice, or sweetened tea please remember to engage in your daily good oral hygiene routine in order to clean your teeth from the sugars left behind. It is a good idea to sleep with a glass of water on your bedside table in case you wake up and find that your mouth is dry. This will ensure that you maintain appropriate levels of saliva in your mouth. Make sure to hydrate when engaging in physical activities and when possible choose water over a sugary sports drink, your oral health, and overall health, will thank you!

You should have a good oral hygiene routine set for every month of the year. In case you find your oral health is not in the condition it should be, visit the Upper Hunt Club Dental Centre in Ottawa. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and have excellent oral health during oral health month - and all the months to come!