Oral Health and General Health Video

Transcript - Oral Health and General Health

Health Canada TV presents

Good Oral Health: It'll Make Your Whole Body Smile

Module One - Oral Health/General Health

My office is committed to bringing you relevant and timely oral health information.

Together with our oral health partners, this series of on-line videos are crafted to help you better understand the link between your oral health and your overall health, to help you establish an effective oral health plan, and to ensure you have information about the risks and symptoms of oral cancer.

Increasing evidence shows a connection between oral health and general health and well-being. Periodontal disease - or disease of the gums and supporting bone - has been linked to a number of diseases including diabetes and lung disease in older adults. Research continues on possible connections with heart disease and stroke. Oral disease itself can cause pain, tooth loss and chronic bad breath, and affects people of all ages.

So what are the most important things you can do to maintain good oral health, reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease, and reduce your risk of developing many of these other diseases?

  • Remove plaque by brushing your teeth for about 2 minutes at least twice a day, and by flossing daily to remove plaque between your teeth.
  • To strengthen your teeth and promote healthy tooth development in children use water, toothpaste, or rinses containing fluoride.
  • Check your teeth, gums and mouth regularly. If you notice any problems with your mouth or teeth, plan to see a dental professional as soon as you are able.
  • Don't smoke or chew tobacco.
  • Stay active and make healthy food choices according to Canada's Food Guide.

If you have diabetes, heart or respiratory disease, or if you're pregnant, plan to speak to a dental or other health care provider to help design an oral health plan that's right for you.

Please view the remaining modules to find out whether you brush and floss correctly, learn what to look for when checking your mouth, and to learn about the risks, signs and symptoms associated with oral cancer.

Remember, good oral health is critical and worthwhile. It'll make your whole body smile.

For more information on oral health, visit www.canada.ca/en/public-health/topics/oral-health

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