If you’ve ever heard the saying “the mouth is a window to the body,” or some other variation of it, you should know that it definitely holds true—your oral health is deeply connected with your overall wellness. While cavities and gum disease might seem like problems that are limited solely to your mouth, research shows that poor oral health can actually increase your risk for serious medical conditions throughout your body. Here’s a closer look at this connection and what you can do to safeguard your smile and the rest of yourself.
How Oral Health Affects the Rest of Your Body
Your mouth is full of bacteria—and while many of them are harmless, if oral hygiene is neglected, the bad bacteria can begin multiplying and contributing to issues like cavities and gum disease. If these bacteria enter your bloodstream, which they’ll gain access to through the gum tissue, they can travel to other parts of your body and trigger inflammation that contributes to systemic health problems. These include:
Heart Disease
Studies show that people with gum disease are at a much higher risk of developing heart disease due to the chronic inflammation that results from gum disease. This means you’d be at a higher risk of having a heart attack, stroke, or other cardiovascular problems; however, keeping your gums healthy offers your heart added protection.
Diabetes
The connection between gum disease and diabetes goes both ways—people with diabetes are more vulnerable to gum disease, and untreated gum disease can lead to an increased risk of diabetes and more difficulty regulating blood sugar levels. This means that both conditions often need to be managed together.
Respiratory Issues
Bacteria from dental infections can be inhaled into the lungs, where they may contribute to respiratory infections like pneumonia, especially in those with weakened immune systems. Once these bacteria are in the lungs and bloodstream, even conditions such as asthma or COPD can worsen.
How to Protect Your Smile & Overall Health
The good news is that many oral health problems are preventable with consistent, good habits such as:
- Brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time.
- Visiting your dentist biannually for preventive care; they’ll be able to spot the signs of gum disease early on, among other problems that may need attention.
- Eating a balanced diet with vitamins and nutrients that benefit your teeth and waistline, and limiting sugary snacks and drinks when possible.
- Avoiding smoking or using tobacco products since they can increase inflammation in the mouth, lungs, and the rest of the body.
The bottom line is, your oral health plays a major role in your total well-being—so don’t hesitate to take a proactive approach when it comes to your teeth and gums. Your whole body will thank you!
About the Practice
Our team here at Beck Dental Care of Columbia has proudly served patients and families in the area for several years, offering a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dental services that are aimed at keeping smiles healthy, happy, and whole. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with us to schedule an appointment for yourself or a loved one, reach out online or call today for more information or assistance. Telephone: (931) 388-8452.