Most of us know that we should brush and floss your teeth every day. But did you know that your oral health offers clues about your overall health? It is not just about preventing cavities and having a beautiful smile, keeping your mouth healthy is an important part of your overall health and well-being.
Our mouths are a pathway for bacteria to enter the body. The bacteria can enter the blood stream, and this may also cause infection or inflammation in other parts of our body. The consequences of neglecting your oral health are far-reaching.
WHAT AFFECTS YOUR ORAL HEALTH?
While some people are just more predisposed to developing periodontal disease and systemic disorders than others through inherited genes, there are some common risk factors, including:
- Poor oral hygiene
- An unhealthy diet, especially one high in sugar
- Tobacco use
- Excessive alcohol use
- High stress
WHAT PROBLEMS CAN OCCUR FROM POOR ORAL HEALTH?
Gum Disease – Poor dental care allows plaque buildup, which can harden into tartar and eventually cause inflammation and infection of the gums, resulting in gum disease, often called periodontal disease.
Heart Disease and Stroke – The bacteria from infected gums enters the bloodstream and can cause the arteries to build up plaque, putting you at risk for a heart attack and stroke. The inflammation can damage your blood vessels and make blood clots more likely.
Dementia – Inflamed gums can release substances that are harmful to our brain cells. This can lead to memory loss that is a result of bacteria spreading to the nerves.
Respiratory Illnesses – The bacteria from infected or inflamed gums can transfer into the lungs, leading to respiratory infections, pneumonia, or even bronchitis.
Diabetes – Gum disease can lead to higher blood sugar levels, and this can put a person at risk for developing diabetes. Also, if you have diabetes, you are more likely to have gum disease.
Pregnancy Complications – Pregnant women who have gum disease are significantly more likely to have their baby prematurely and a baby with low birth weight, because the inflammation can travel through the bloodstream and affect the placenta.
Cancer – Poor oral health can put patients at risk for kidney cancer, pancreatic cancer, or blood cancer as the inflammation can damage cells and make them more likely to become cancerous. Smoking and use of tobacco products can lead to oral or throat cancers.
Kidney Disease – Periodontal disease can lead to kidney disease, affecting the kidneys, heart, bones, and blood pressure. Patients with gum disease typically have weaker immune systems, and this can make them susceptible to infection.
Arthritis – The bacteria responsible for inflammation in dental disease may prompt rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, pain and stiffness can cause jaw pain and make it harder for people with arthritis to brush and floss.
HOW CAN I PROTECT MY ORAL HEALTH?
Taking good care of your gums, teeth, and mouth can help keep your whole body healthy. Here are some tips:
- Brush your teeth twice a day
- Floss once a day
- Try mouthwash or a water flosser
- See your dentist twice a year
- Avoid food and drinks with excessive amounts of sugar
- Drink plenty of water and eat a well-balanced diet
- Exercise and take care of your overall health
- Cease the use of tobacco products (smoking, chewing, and vaping)
Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC.gov/oral health), Mayo Clinic (mayoclinic.org), The American Academy for Oral & Systematic Health (aaosh.org), Oral Health Foundation (dentalhealth.org), University of Florida Health (ufhealth.org).
