How Oral Health Affects Overall Health

Oral health offers vital information about an individual's body condition and overall health. For example, gum disease can indicate an underlying health condition that will cause problems to your general health. 

The mouth is teeming with bacteria, some of which can cause diseases. You can protect your health by taking good care of your teeth and gums. You can find out how oral health affects overall health. 
 

Oral Health and Overall Wellness

Research has shown there is a relationship between oral health and physical health. Gum disease has a connection with conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, respiratory disease, and rheumatoid arthritis. 

People with a history of gum disease are two times more likely to suffer a fatal heart attack and three times more likely to suffer a stroke. The mouth can be an entryway for bacteria to get into the bloodstream, leading to inflammations even in the heart. 
 

Poor Oral Hygiene and Oral Infections

Bacteria can cause disease, but good oral care and natural defenses can help reduce bacteria. Good oral health care, including daily brushing and flossing, will help prevent bacteria from causing gum disease and tooth decay. 

Oral bacteria lead to inflammation that can play a significant role in developing diseases. Certain health conditions like HIV and diabetes can reduce the body's resistance to getting infections. It causes oral issues to be more severe. 
 

Conditions Linked to Oral Health 

Poor oral health can cause cardiovascular disease, endocarditis (infection of the heart lining), and pneumonia. Periodontitis can lead to pregnancy and delivery complications. 

Some health conditions affect oral health, and they include:
 

• HIV/AIDS

• Diabetes

• Osteoporosis

• Alzheimer's disease

• Rheumatoid arthritis

• Eating disorders

• Certain cancers

Medications and Oral Health 

Some medications can contribute to oral health conditions. The medicines include painkillers, decongestants, diuretics, and antihistamines, which can cause a reduction in saliva. Saliva helps keep the mouth healthy by washing away food debris. It also helps neutralize acids produced by oral bacteria. 

It helps protect against microbes that can lead to disease. Dry mouth (Sjogren's syndrome) has a link to oral health. If you are ill, taking any medications, or have a chronic condition, inform your dentist. 
 

Protecting Your Oral Health

There are things that you can do to protect your oral health. 
 

• Good oral hygiene includes brushing your teeth two times a day using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.

• Replace your toothbrush every three months

• Floss daily and use a mouthwash to get rid of food debris

• Avoid tobacco use

• Drink plenty of water

• Eat a healthy diet

• Limit your sugar intake

• Schedule regular visits to the dentist for checkups and professional cleaning

Maintaining good oral health is a lifelong commitment. Taking good care of your teeth and gums will help you avoid expensive dental procedures. It can also help prevent long-term health complications. 

For more on how oral health affects overall health, call John K. See, DDS, at (805) 920-8600 to reach our office in Camarillo, California.