How Does Oral Health Affect Overall Health?

To protect your mouth from potentially harmful bacteria, good oral health care and the body’s natural defenses usually step in to keep things in check. However, without good oral hygiene, bacteria can flourish and pave the way for oral infections to develop, like gum disease and tooth decay.

Certain medications like antidepressants, diuretics, decongestants, painkillers, and antihistamines can reduce saliva flow. Saliva is essential because it neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth and washes away food particles. It gives protection from bacteria that multiply and lead to disease.

Studies show that oral bacteria and the inflammation associated with periodontitis (a severe kind of gum disease) might have a role in some diseases. Also, certain diseases like HIV, AIDS, and diabetes can lower the body’s resistance to infection, which can make oral health issues more severe.

Conditions Linked to Oral Health

Cardiovascular disease. Research suggests that stroke, clogged arteries, and heart disease might have links to the infections and inflammation caused by oral bacteria.
Endocarditis. This is an infection of the inner lining of the heart valves and chambers and usually happens when bacteria from another part of the body – like your mouth – spread to the bloodstream and attach to areas in the heart.
Pneumonia. Bacteria in the mouth can get into the lungs, leading to pneumonia and other respiratory problems.
Pregnancy and birth problems. Periodontitis is linked to low birth weight and premature birth.

Conditions Affecting Oral Health

Alzheimer’s disease. Worsening oral issues are seen as the disease progresses.
Diabetes. Because the body’s infection resistance is reduced, diabetes puts your gums at risk of infection. Gum disease is more frequent and severe among people with diabetes. According to research, people with gum disease find it harder to control their blood sugar levels.
Osteoporosis. This disease is linked with tooth loss and periodontal bone loss. Some drugs used for this condition have some risk of damage to the jawbones.
HIV/AIDS. Oral issues like painful mucosal lesions are very common among people with HIV/AIDS.

Other health issues that might have some links to oral health include rheumatoid arthritis, immune system disorders, eating disorders, and certain cancers. It is important that you inform your dentist of any medications you are taking and any changes in your overall health, particularly if you have a chronic condition like diabetes.

To protect your dental health, it is important that you practice good oral hygiene every day. Brush your teeth twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Make sure that you replace your toothbrush every three months or as soon as the bristles become worn. You also need to floss at least once daily.

It is also recommended to eat a healthy diet, avoid tobacco use, and schedule regular checkups and cleanings with your dentist. If any oral health problem arises, contact your dentist as soon as possible. Remember that taking care of your oral health is an investment for your overall health.