We know that our oral health has a direct effect on our ability to speak, eat, and smile, but many people are unaware that it also plays a role in our overall physical health. Studies show that untreated oral diseases and disorders can have a negative effect on our overall health. This connection is frequently referred to as oral systemic health.
The Link Between Gum Disease and Health
According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health, our mouths can harbor up to 700 species of bacteria. When people have poor oral hygiene, these bacteria multiply. As the number of bacteria increases, their risk of developing gum disease (gingivitis or periodontal disease) rises.
Once gingivitis develops, it causes gum tissue inflammation, leading to bleeding. Thus, providing an opening for these oral bacteria to enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body. These bacteria can cause or amplify a variety of health problems.
Studies indicate that people who have poor oral hygiene are at an increased risk for developing:
Diabetes: Gum disease can impact the body’s ability to control glucose levels, which can increase an individual’s risk of developing diabetes. Furthermore, due to high blood sugar levels, people who already have diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease, which increases their risk for heart and kidney disease.
Respiratory problems: When bacteria enter the bloodstream or an individual inhales oral bacteria into their lungs, respiratory problems can develop. Potential issues include pneumonia, respiratory infections, COPD, and bronchitis.
Heart disease: Once oral bacteria enter the bloodstream, they can cause arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), which leads to the development of heart disease.
Stroke: When oral bacteria enter the bloodstream, they can cause arteries to harden and blood clots to form. Both of these issues can block the blood flow to the brain, causing an individual to suffer a stroke.
Preterm labor and premature birth: As oral bacteria travel throughout a pregnant woman's bloodstream, they may enter her uterus. Once they enter, they trigger the production of hormone-like substances (prostaglandins). Prostaglandins could cause her to go into premature labor.
Alzheimer’s disease and dementia: Some experts think that oral bacteria traveling through the bloodstream can enter the brain via the trigeminal nerve. Once they enter, these bacteria cause inflammation, which kills brain cells, resulting in memory loss.
Cancer: Studies indicate that people who have periodontal disease are more likely to develop oral cancer. The bacterial exposure associated with gum disease also increases their risk of developing other types of cancer.
Tips for Maintaining Good Oral Health
By following a good oral hygiene routine, you can decrease the number of bacteria in your mouth, preventing the potential health problems associated with the link between chronic diseases and oral health.
A good oral care routine includes:
- Flossing daily to remove the plaque and food particles in between the teeth and at the gum line.
- Brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day. Each brushing session should last for two minutes. You should spend 30 seconds on each quadrant of your mouth. If possible, we recommend that you use an electronic toothbrush. During your brushing sessions, remember to scrape or brush your tongue.
- Rinsing your mouth with antibacterial mouthwash at least once a day.
- Avoiding tobacco products. These products increase the risk of developing periodontal disease. They also inhibit the body’s ability to heal.
- Eating a balanced diet. Your diet should include foods that are full of vitamins and minerals. Be sure to eat foods rich in calcium and vitamin C because these foods support gum health. Limit your intake of sugary and starchy foods.
- Visiting your Bloomington dentist twice a year for your routine cleanings and checkups.
- Managing health conditions that increase your risk of developing gum disease (e.g., diabetes).
- Paying attention to medication side effects (e.g., dry mouth) so you can maintain good oral hygiene while taking them.
The Importance of Biannual Cleanings and Checkups
Once plaque hardens, it’s called tartar (calculus). Only a dental professional can remove tartar. During your professional dental cleaning at Liberty Family Dentistry, we'll remove tartar buildup on the teeth.
Oral health issues can often go unnoticed without obvious signs or discomfort. That’s why preventative care is so important! During your professional evaluation, our Bloomington dentist carefully checks for any early signs of oral conditions, including cancer, to keep your smile healthy and thriving..
Now that you understand oral hygiene’s systemic impacts, you can improve your smile and prevent potential health issues by regularly visiting a dentist.
Your Bloomington dentist helps maintain your dental wellness, brightening your smile and reducing the likelihood of physical conditions associated with oral health. Call Liberty Family Dentistry at 812-339-2811 or use our online form to schedule your professional cleaning and checkup today.