FDI World Dental Federation recently presented the latest findings on oral health on World Oral Health Day, March 20.

Among them are clear examples that oral health can be compromised by a number of chronic and infectious diseases, whose symptoms are shown in the mouth.

• People who suffer from HIV/AIDS: about 40-50% present of them show early indicators of an HIV infection through fungal, bacterial or viral infections in the mouth;
• Leukemia may cause oral ulcers;
• Bulimia often causes characteristic tooth erosions (from gastric acid) and
• Diabetes can result in delayed healing of mouth wounds and the worsening of gum disease. Oral diseases can lead to infection, inflammation, and other serious affects on overall health.

Thus, maintaining good oral health is crucial to sustaining general health and vice versa.