Did you know that poor oral health can lead to many seemingly unrelated medical conditions? In fact, oral bacteria and oral disease have been linked to a variety of serious illnesses, including heart disease, diabetes, stroke and pregnancy complications. That’s why it’s essential for employers to understand the importance of dental care and how it relates to their employees’ benefits. The importance of oral health The following examples illustrate the relationship between your oral health and general health. Tobacco, alcohol and illicit drugs affect both your overall and oral health. Dry mouth, or a lack of saliva increases your risk of tooth decay. Oral pain resulting in an inability to eat properly prevents you from getting the nutrition your body needs to stay healthy. Periodontal disease Oral health can often be used to diagnose underlying health issues. For example, the advanced form of gum disease, called periodontitis , causes tooth loss and is also sometimes associated with ...