Your oral health is more important than you might realize. Learn how the health of your mouth, teeth and gums can affect your general health.
Did you know that your oral health provides clues about your overall health – or that problems in your mouth can affect the rest of your body? Protect yourself by learning more about the connection between oral and overall health.
What is the connection between oral health and overall health?
Just like other parts of the body, your mouth is full of bacteria – mostly harmless. But your mouth is the entry point to your digestive and respiratory tracts, and some of these bacteria can cause disease.
Normally, the body’s natural defenses and good oral care, such as daily brushing and flossing, keep bacteria under control. However, without proper oral hygiene, bacteria can reach levels that may lead to oral infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease.
Also, certain medications – such as decongestants, antihistamines, painkillers, diuretics, and antidepressants – can reduce saliva flow. Saliva washes away food and neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth, helping protect you from microbes that multiply and lead to disease.
Studies suggest that oral bacteria and inflammation associated with severe gum disease (periodontitis) might play a role in some diseases. And certain diseases, such as diabetes, can reduce the body’s resistance to infections, making oral health problems more severe.
Which conditions can be linked to oral health?
Your oral health can contribute to various diseases and conditions, including:
Endocarditis. This infection of the inner lining of your heart chambers or valves (endocardium) usually occurs when bacteria or other germs from another part of your body, such as your mouth, spread through the bloodstream and attach to certain areas in the heart.
Cardiovascular disease. Although the connection is not fully understood, some research suggests that heart disease, clogged arteries, and stroke might be linked to the inflammation and infections that oral bacteria can cause.
Pregnancy and birth complications. Periodontitis has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.
Pneumonia. Certain bacteria in the mouth can be pulled into the lungs, causing pneumonia and other respiratory diseases.
Certain conditions can also affect your oral health, including:
Diabetes. By reducing the body’s resistance to infection, diabetes increases the risk of gum inflammation. Gum disease appears to be more frequent and severe among people with diabetes.
Research shows that people with gum disease have more difficulty controlling blood sugar levels. Regular periodontal care can improve diabetes control.
Osteoporosis. This bone-weakening disease is linked to periodontal bone loss and tooth loss. Some medications used to treat osteoporosis carry a small risk of damage to jaw bones.
Alzheimer’s disease. Worsening oral health is observed as Alzheimer’s disease progresses.
Other conditions that may be linked to oral health include eating disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, certain cancers, and an immune system disorder that causes dry mouth (Sjogren’s syndrome).
Tell your dentist about the medications you take and about changes in your overall health, especially if you have been ill recently or have a chronic condition such as diabetes.
How can I protect my oral health?
To protect your oral health, practice good oral hygiene every day.
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush using fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily.
- Use mouthwash to remove food particles left after brushing and flossing.
- Eat a healthy diet and limit foods with added sugars.
- Replace your toothbrush every three months or sooner if the bristles become frayed or worn.
- Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings.
- Avoid tobacco use.
- Also, see your dentist as soon as an oral health problem arises.
Caring for your oral health is an investment in your overall health.
