Oral Health

Oral health refers to the health of your teeth and your mouth. Maintaining good oral health includes keeping your teeth free from cavities and keeping your gums free from disease.

Did You Know

Poor oral health can affect more than just your mouth; it can affect other areas of your body as well. In fact there is now research that shows the connection between poor oral health and systemic disease such as diabetes in people of all ages and respiratory diseases particularly among elderly people. Also there is new research now pointing to possible connections between oral health and other systemic conditions such as heart disease and premature, low birth weight babies.

It is important to maintain the health of your mouth and teeth throughout your lifetime.

What Can You Do to Keep Your Teeth and Gums Healthy?

• Brush and floss daily. Learn more about oral hygiene practices for all ages.
• Eat a healthy diet according to Canada's Food Guide.
• Find out if your municipal water is fluoridated? If not, ask your municipal councillors about fluoridated water and its benefits.
• Have regular visits with a dental professional. See your dental professional immediately if you notice any problems with your mouth and teeth.
• Look after your teeth and mouth if you are pregnant. Be sure to eat healthy foods and maintain good oral health.
• Know the signs and symptoms of oral cancer.
• Think about quitting smoking and/or using tobacco products.
• Know about the connections between diabetes and your oral health, especially if you are diabetic.
• Improve your oral health by informing yourself through Health Canada's Office of the Chief Dental Officer.
• Read and download the Smile: Healthy Teeth, Healthy Body booklet to learn more about the health of your teeth and mouth.

Related Resources

• The Effects of Oral Health on Overall Health (It's Your Health)
• Athletic Mouthguards (It's Your Health)
• Fluorides and Human Health (It's Your Health)
• Gum Disease (It's Your Health)
• Smile: Healthy Teeth, Healthy Body (booklet)