It’s no secret that smoking is bad for the gums. But the harms of smoking may reach even deeper into the oral bone and prevent healing from gum disease.

The human digestive tract may be vulnerable to a common infection after taking certain medications. But even depression itself may make the gut more susceptible to infection.

Heavy drinking can burden anyone’s liver. But in people who are also overweight, heavy drinking may really push the liver past its limits.

When the weight won't come off, patients can consider surgery on their stomachs to shed the pounds. Though surgery can be helpful in losing weight, one procedure might have more risks than others when it comes to drinking alcohol.

A good time to promote oral hygiene may pop up when a person is ready to quit smoking. Tobacco counselors can prompt their patients: out with the smoking, in with the flossing and brushing.

Dry mouth can go from uncomfortable to unbearable in a hurry. Certain medications can trigger dry mouth, but help may be found in the form of a plant-based spray.

Of course good oral hygiene is key in preventing tooth loss, but other lifestyle factors are important too. Healthy teeth may reflect healthy lifestyle choices.

For healthy people, a drink or two can be okay. But for people with hepatitis C liver infections, a drink or two a day might be very dangerous.

One consequence to smoking cigarettes is losing teeth. Women who are past menopause aren't free from that consequence: the heavier the smoker, the more likely they may be to lose their pearly whites.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be painful and interfere with many aspects of life. Partners of people with IBS may not feel the physical pain but they are affected by it.