The health and functional well-being of the mouth, teeth, gums, and other structures of the oral cavity.
Oral health includes freedom from conditions such as tooth decay, gum disease, oral infections, and other disorders affecting the mouth. It also includes the ability to eat, speak, taste, and perform other normal oral functions comfortably.
Oral health can influence and be influenced by general health, nutrition, medications, and chronic diseases.
QUICK FACT
Oral health is part of overall health, not a completely separate aspect of health.
COMMONLY CONFUSED WITH
Oral hygiene: practices such as brushing, flossing, and cleaning the mouth that help maintain oral health.
SEE ALSO