Oral Hygiene: The Silent Key to Overall Health

Oral Hygiene: More Than Just Clean Teeth, a Dominican Republic Perspective The Dominican Republic is increasingly focusing on public health initiatives. A recent interview with endodontist Dra. Yessica Gómez on CDN 37's "Más Que Noticias" program highlighted the crucial link between oral hygiene and overall health. Dra. Gómez emphasized that neglecting oral health can have serious consequences. "Everything that happens in your mouth can affect your brain and other organs, leading to illnesses," Dra. Gómez stated. She cited studies linking poor dental health to conditions like Alzheimer's disease. The interview also stressed the importance of thorough brushing (at least three minutes), flossing, and using mouthwash to reduce bacteria, which can enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation in organs like the liver. The hosts of the show, Mariela Duarte and Juan Medina, engaged Dra. Gómez in a discussion about common mistakes people make, such as brushing for only 30 seconds instead of the recommended three minutes. They also discussed the importance of brushing before drinking water in the morning to reduce the ingestion of overnight bacteria buildup. This informative segment underscores the need for comprehensive oral care as a vital component of overall well-being, a message resonating strongly within the Dominican Republic and beyond.